A self-management program for low vision: program overview and pilot evaluation.

PURPOSE

This article describes a new low vision-specific self-management (SM) program for older adults with vision impairment, and provides preliminary data on program evaluation from two small pilot groups.

METHOD

The SM program was an 8-week, structured group program aiming to enhance participants' skills to manage the practical and emotional consequences of vision impairment. The pilot evaluation was a single group post-test design. Participants took part in a structured interview to obtain their views on the content, format and delivery of the program.

RESULTS

The program was perceived as useful and the duration and level of information provided were deemed appropriate. Participants reported the program to have a positive impact on their mood, understanding of low vision and services available and their ability to manage the challenges of low vision.

CONCLUSIONS

The content and delivery of the program is appropriate for older individuals with vision impairment. Further work is required to provide a methodologically sound evaluation of this program and contribute to the evidence-base regarding the effectiveness of approaches to vision rehabilitation.