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. 2009 May;127(5):681-9.
doi: 10.1001/archophthalmol.2009.55.

Characteristics of low-vision rehabilitation services in the United States

Cynthia Owsley  1 , Gerald McGwin Jr, Paul P Lee, Nicole Wasserman, Karen Searcey
Affiliations

Characteristics of low-vision rehabilitation services in the United States

Cynthia Owsley et al. Arch Ophthalmol. 2009 May.

Abstract

Objectives: To describe characteristics of services, providers, and patients in low-vision rehabilitation entities serving adults in the United States.

Methods: Entities (excluding Veterans Affairs clinics) were identified through professional associations, Web searches, and a telephone survey to retina practices. A census obtained information on entity types, provider types, rehabilitation services available, and clientele. Surveys were administered by telephone, fax, e-mail, or mail, whichever was preferred by the respondent.

Results: A total of 1228 low-vision rehabilitation service entities were identified, with 608 surveyed (49.5% response rate). Almost half (42.7%) were private optometry practices. State agencies had the highest number of clients per week (45.0 clients per week) whereas private optometry practices had the lowest (4.1 clients per week). Most (> or =88.0%) established rehabilitation goals, fit optical aids with basic training, and conducted eye examinations. Scanning, eccentric viewing, orientation and mobility, and advanced device training were less commonly offered (25%-50% of entities). Central vision impairment was the most common deficit (74.1% of clients), with age-related macular degeneration being the most common cause (67.1%). Among the clients, 85.9% had problems reading and 67.7% had problems driving; 44.9% had adjustment disorders. Almost 1 in 3 clients was aged 80 years or older.

Conclusion: This census for the first time characterizes usual-care low-vision rehabilitation services in the United States for nonveteran adults.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Self-reported weekly client volume according to entity type.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Proportion of low-vision clients receiving services according to entity type.
Figure 3
Figure 3
State specific density (entities per 1,000,000 population) of low vision entities.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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