Understanding the Impact of Vision Loss on Quality of Life Amongst Older People

Aging is known to significantly impact visual acuity, leading to a series of consequences that affect individual well-being and societal dynamics. Impaired vision is closely associated with diminished quality of life, social isolation, increased vulnerability, and heightened demand for societal intervention. This study aims to elucidate the lived experiences of individuals coping with vision loss, thereby enhancing understanding of their reflections and identifying viable strategies for managing life with visual impairment. We explore the navigational pathways that visually impaired individuals traverse within the welfare system, detailing interactions with both private and public entities. The findings are primarily derived from qualitative interviews, supplemented by quantitative data from questionnaires and eye examinations. Results indicate a prevalence of undetected visual changes among older adults, which adversely impact daily functioning. Informants frequently attribute their visual changes to normal aging, leading to varying responses: while some delay or avoid seeking assistance, others pursue timely intervention. Notably, a prominent barrier to seeking help emerged as the fear of losing once driving privileges. In response to visual decline, informants have developed coping strategies to adapt to their changing functionalities. This study underscores the necessity of increased awareness and responsive services to support aging individuals experiencing vision loss.