Evaluation and comparison of quality of life in different, categories of low vision

Abstract

Background: Low vision is problem in which it makes hard for the people to do everyday activities and this problem can’t be fixed with glasses, contact lenses, medicines or surgery. Aim: This study was conducted to assess the quality of life in patients with low vision. Materials & Methods: In present study, there were 2 categories of 90 patients each who were joined in the outpatient department of Ophthalmology, Gandhi Medical College, Hyderabad, Telangana State. Category 1 consisted of 90 patients of low vision (Moderate visual impairment). Category 2 consisted of 90 patients of low vision (Severe visual impairment). Results: The mean age was 60.22±10.52 and 60.66±8.96 years respectively. 36% were males and 64% were females in category 1 and 57% were males and 43% were females in category 2. Mean comparision of various questionnaires were found to be statistically significant between two categories. Category 2 people have more difficulty in reading ordinary newspaper, small print on telephone book, medicine bottle while wearing glasses and they need help from others due to their poor eye sight. Category 2 people recognise people with more difficulty even though they know the people across the room. Conclusion: In patients of both categories, low vision affects quality of life. This study concluded that Category 2 people have poor quality of life in comparison to Category 1.