Abstract

Aim: To review the evidence for the presence of lower levels of psychosocial well-being in working age adults with visual impairment, and for interventions to improve such levels of psychosocial well-being. Methods: Systematic review of quantitative studies published in English from 2001 to July 2008 that measured: depression / mental health, anxiety, quality of life, social functioning, or social support. Results: Included were 29 studies that measured one or more outcomes (n = 52). Working age adults with visual impairment were significantly more likely to report lower levels of mental health (mean difference [MD] = 14.51/100), social functioning (MD = 11.55/100), and quality of life. Studies regarding the prevalence of depressive symptoms produced inconsistent results but had methodological limitations. Conclusions: Future research is required into the prevalence of loneliness, anxiety, and depression in adults with visual impairment, and to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions for improving psychosocial well-being such as counselling, peer support, and employment programmes.

Available Versions of this Item

• Psychosocial impact of vision loss in working age adults. (deposited 29 Apr 2010 20:58) [Currently Displayed]
  • Psychosocial impact of visual impairment in working-age adults. (deposited 22 Dec 2010 11:20)