The role of occupational therapy in vision rehabilitation of individuals with glaucoma.

PURPOSE

Specific to individuals with glaucoma: (1) provide an overview of the role of occupational therapists (OTs) as part of the vision rehabilitation team, (2) outline evaluation and intervention approaches provided by OTs, and (3) summarize the evidence to support those intervention approaches.

METHODS

Literature on vision rehabilitation and the typical practice patterns of OTs working with individuals with glaucoma are reviewed and the occupational therapy process is applied to evaluation and intervention approaches. The evidence which supports intervention approaches for individuals with glaucoma is presented.

RESULTS

The strength of the evidence to support common intervention approaches employed by OTs is weak or inconclusive; many studies lack quality methodological rigor. Moderate evidence supports patient education programs and strong evidence supports problem-solving and self-management strategies; this evidence is based on a limited number of studies.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of eye diseases is increasing; knowledge of how visual impairment affects disability will inform resource allocation and development of rehabilitation programs that address the unique needs of individuals with glaucoma. Rehabilitation specialists are key members of the healthcare team aligned to proactively recognize and develop comprehensive rehabilitation programs to maximize individuals' function, quality of life and independence in everyday living.

IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION

Glaucoma is one of the four major eye diseases that may result in visual impairment leading to disability. Research supports intervention approaches and vision rehabilitation techniques used by occupational therapists to optimize the health and well-being of individuals with glaucoma. Rehabilitation specialists are key members of the healthcare team who need to be alert to subtle behaviors that may be indicative of visual impairment versus attributed to other client factors.