Topical review: Challenges and solutions for eye care in long-term care

The prevalence of visual impairment among individuals living in long-term care (LTC) is substantial, yet eye care is often disregarded and inadequately addressed. This neglect contributes to a decline in quality of life for residents. Thus, understanding the challenges faced by stakeholders in providing eye care for residents might suggest opportunities to improve eye health outcomes.

This study aimed to identify factors influencing access to eye care services in LTC, focusing on key stakeholders including residents, family members, aged care staff, and eye care professionals.

We included studies on vision/eye care-related challenges and/or management of eye conditions for people living in LTC facilities. We performed literature searches using Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, PubMed, CINAHL/EBSCO, EMBASE, APA PsycINFO, and Web of Science database. The search was limited to articles in English language, published between January 2013 and September 2023. Factors influencing the vision/eye care for residents were mapped to respective stakeholders, and we visualized how they interacted within the LTC system in providing eye care.

Eleven studies were included in the review. We found that the challenges to appropriate eye care in LTC are present across all stakeholder groups. These challenges include limited awareness of eye health, logistical difficulties in coordinating and managing eye care within LTC settings, and negative beliefs and attitudes toward prioritizing eye care for residents.

This review highlights that barriers to eye care in LTC communities exist at multiple levels and involve a range of stakeholders. In order to improve eye care, interventions should be at the system level, considering the influence of all key stakeholders rather than employing a targeted approach.