The comparison of visual versus non visual factors related quality of life in visually impaired patients

Abstract

Objectives: To compare the association of visual and non-visual factors related to quality of life in patients having low vision. Visual factors include contrast sensitivity, glare, use of electronic devices etc. Non visual factors involve patient’s living situation, financial status, general health etc. Method: This comparative cross sectional study involved 100 visually impaired patients and the comparison of visual and non-visual factors related to quality of life in visually impaired patients. This study was conducted in September, October and November, 2014. Results: Quality of life score of visual factors in visually impaired patient showed that fourteen percent patients have poor QOL while thirty nine percent patients have fair QOL and forty seven percent patients have good QOL. Score of non-visual factors related QOL displays that fifty four percent patients have poor QOL while forty three percent patients have fair QOL and only three percent patients have good QOL. On comparing visual and non-visual factors QOL, visual factors lead to good QOL while non-visual factors mostly leads to poor QOL. Conclusion: There is a significant comparison of visual and non-visual factors related quality of life that is visual factors are more significant indicators of QOL. Visual factors lead to good quality of life while non-visual factors leads to poor quality of life. This study also concludes that visual impairment is associated with quality of life. Key Words: Low vision (LV), visual impairment (VI) and quality of life (QOL).