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Almidani L, Varadaraj V, Banerjee S, E JY, Mihailovic A, Ramulu PY. The Quantitative Impact of Visual Function on Accelerometer-measured Physical Activity in Older United States Adults: A Nationwide Cross-sectional Analysis. OPHTHALMOLOGY SCIENCE 2024; 4:100464. [PMID: 38591049 PMCID: PMC11000108 DOI: 10.1016/j.xops.2023.100464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Purpose To explore the impact of objective vision measures on novel metrics of objectively-measured physical activity (PA) in a nationally representative sample of United States (US) older adults. Design Cross-sectional analysis using data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study. Participants Adults had their distance and near visual acuity (VA) and contrast sensitivity (CS) tested. Any objective vision impairment (VI), defined as any VI in distance VA, near VA, or CS, was the primary exposure. Physical activity data were collected using the Actigraph CentrePoint Insight Watch worn for 7 days. Methods Multivariable regression models were used to investigate the association between vision and PA measures. All analyses accounted for the survey design and models were adjusted for age, sex, race, living arrangement, education, and comorbidities. Main Outcome Measures Physical activity metrics included (1) total daily activity (active minutes per day, number of active bouts, and mean length of active bouts), (2) activity fragmentation, and (3) time until 75% activity. An active bout was defined as ≥ 1 consecutive active minute. Activity fragmentation was defined as the probability of an active minute being followed by a sedentary minute, with higher values indicating more fragmented activity. Time until 75% activity was defined as the time taken to complete 75% of daily PA starting from their first active bout. Results Among 723 participants, sampled from 10 443 338 older adults in the US, 30% had any objective VI. Any objective VI was significantly associated with lower number of active minutes per day (7.8% fewer [95% confidence interval {CI}: -13.6% to -1.7%]), shorter active bouts (7.0% shorter [95% CI: -12.3% to -1.4%]), and greater activity fragmentation (2.5% [95% CI: 0.8% to 4.2%]), while no associations were found with number of active bouts. Time until 75% activity did not significantly differ between adults with any objective VI and those without (P = 0.34). Conclusions Older US adults with any objective VI displayed lower total daily activity, as well as more fragmented, shorter periods of PA, despite having a similar number of active bouts compared to their normally sighted counterparts. Implementing interventions that increase bout duration may help promote PA in adults with VI. Financial Disclosures Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louay Almidani
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Varshini Varadaraj
- Johns Hopkins Disability Health Research Center, Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Seema Banerjee
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jian-Yu E
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Aleksandra Mihailovic
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Pradeep Y. Ramulu
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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Xiong K, Zhang Q, Mao H, Zhou W, Huang Q, Liang Y. Association of spouse's vision impairment with depressive symptoms and cognitive decline in partner: A nationally representative study in China. J Affect Disord 2024; 355:392-398. [PMID: 38531494 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.03.097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although several previous studies have reported on the relationship between vision impairment and caregiver mental health, mixed results were obtained, and only one study reported the association between spousal vision impairment and partner depression. Therefore, our study aimed to examine the association between spousal vision impairment and the partner's depressive symptoms and cognitive decline. METHODS This cross-sectional study gathered baseline data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) in 2011. A total of 10,956 couples were included in the study. Vision impairment was assessed by respondents' self-reported distance or near vision. Multivariate logistic and linear regression were conducted to evaluate the association between the spouse's vision impairment and the partner's depressive symptoms and cognitive function. RESULTS The prevalence of partners with depressive symptoms was significantly higher among spouses with vision impairment than among those without (43.3 % vs. 32.5 %; P < 0.001), and cognitive function was significantly lower (spousal vision impairment 14.4 ± 4.5 vs. no spousal vision impairment 15.5 ± 4.6; P < 0.001). After fully adjusting for potential confounders, the partner had greater odds of depressive symptoms for spouses with vision impairment than for those without (odds ratio: 1.525; 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 1.387 to 1.677). Furthermore, spousal vision impairment was negatively associated with the partner's cognitive function (β = -0.640; 95 % CI: -0.840 to -0.440). Sensitivity analysis was performed, and consistent results were obtained (all P < 0.05). LIMITATIONS Visual function was assessed by self-reporting. CONCLUSIONS A spouse's vision impairment is associated with depressive symptoms and cognitive decline in the partner. The findings imply the importance of considering the partner's mental health when managing their spouse's vision impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Xiong
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Qi'ao Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Huiyan Mao
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Wenzhe Zhou
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Qiangjie Huang
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Yuanbo Liang
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China.
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Thomas J, Almidani L, Swenor BK, Varadaraj V. Digital Technology Use Among Older Adults With Vision Impairment. JAMA Ophthalmol 2024; 142:445-452. [PMID: 38573612 PMCID: PMC11099681 DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2024.0467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Importance Telehealth has the potential to improve health for older adults, but many access disparities exist, including for those with vision impairment (VI). Objective To examine the associations between VI and digital technology access measures in US older adults. Design, Setting, and Participants This was a cross-sectional study that included Medicare beneficiaries 65 years and older. Beneficiary data were obtained from the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS) 2021; data collection was conducted from June 2020 through January 2021. Data were analyzed September 2023. Exposure VI, measured on categorical (distance and near VI [>0.30 logMAR], contrast sensitivity impairment [CSI; <1.55 logCS], and any VI [distance VI, near VI, or CSI]), and continuous (distance and near acuity [logMAR] and contrast sensitivity [logCS]) scales. Main Outcomes Self-reported outcomes of digital technology access from the technological environment component of the NHATS. Results Of the 2822 Medicare beneficiaries (mean [SD] age, 78.5 [5.6] years; 1605 female [54.7%]) included in this study, patients self-identified with the following race and ethnicity categories (weighted percentages): 575 non-Hispanic Black (8.0%), 132 Hispanic (7.0%), 2019 non-Hispanic White (81.7%), and 63 non-Hispanic other race (3.4%), which included American Indian, Alaska Native, Asian, multiracial, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, or other specified race. A total of 1077 of 2822 patients (32.3%) had any VI. In multivariable logistic regression models, older adults with any VI had lower odds of having or knowing how to use a cellphone (odds ratio [OR], 0.58; 95% CI, 0.38-0.88), computer (OR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.47-0.79), or tablet (OR, 0.68, 95% CI = 0.54-0.85) than peers without VI. In other models, near VI was associated with lower odds of having and knowing how to use a phone (OR, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.36-0.87), computer (OR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.44-0.75), or tablet (OR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.52-0.81) compared with no near VI. CSI was associated with lower odds of having and knowing how to use a phone (OR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.45-0.99) or computer (OR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.55-0.93) compared with no CSI. Distance VI was only associated with lower odds of having and knowing how to use a cellphone (OR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.41-0.95). Any VI and individual categorical VI measures were not associated with other outcomes of digital health- and nonhealth-related experiences. Similar associations were noted when vision was examined on a continuous scale. However, worse distance acuity (per 0.1 logMAR) was associated with being less likely to visit with family or friends on a video call (OR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.84-0.98) and to order or refill prescriptions online (OR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.83-0.97). Conclusions and Relevance Results suggest that older US adults with VI were less likely to have access to digital technology than peers without VI, although no differences were noted in the report of digital health- and nonhealth-related activities. These findings highlight the potential for inequities that may arise in telehealth for older adults with VI and the necessity to develop strategies to improve accessibility of telemedicine for all.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Thomas
- Texas A&M School of Medicine, Bryan, Texas
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Louay Almidani
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Bonnielin K. Swenor
- Johns Hopkins Disability Health Research Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Varshini Varadaraj
- Johns Hopkins Disability Health Research Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland
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Almidani L, Miller R, Varadaraj V, Mihailovic A, Swenor BK, Ramulu PY. Vision Impairment and Psychosocial Function in US Adults. JAMA Ophthalmol 2024; 142:283-291. [PMID: 38386343 PMCID: PMC10884944 DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2023.6943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Importance Vision impairment and psychosocial function, including symptoms of depression and anxiety and social isolation, are a major cause of morbidity in the US. However, there is a lack of nationally representative studies assessing associations between both objective and subjective vision impairment with psychosocial function following the COVID-19 pandemic. Objective To provide updated national estimates on the associations of vision impairment with depressive and anxiety symptoms and social isolation in US adults 65 years and older. Design, Setting, and Participants This was a cross-sectional analysis of the National Health and Aging Trends Study round 9 (2019) and 11 (2021), a nationally representative sample of Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 years and older. Binocular distance visual acuity, near visual acuity, and contrast sensitivity were tested. Objectively measured vision impairment was defined as having vision impairment in either distance visual acuity (worse than 20/40), near visual acuity (worse than 20/40), or contrast sensitivity (worse than 1.55 logCS). Self-reported vision impairment was defined based on participants' report on their vision status. Data were analyzed in May 2023. Main Outcomes and Measures Depressive and anxiety symptoms assessed via the Patient Health Questionnaire. Social isolation was defined based on living arrangement, communication frequency, and activity participation responses. Results Among 2822 community-dwelling adults sampled from a population of 26 182 090, the mean (SD) age was 78.5 (5.6) years; 1605 individuals (54.7%) were female; 1077 (32.3%) had objectively measured vision impairment, and 203 (6.4%) had self-reported vision impairment. In adjusted models, all outcomes were significantly associated with objectively measured vision impairment, including depressive symptoms (odds ratio [OR], 1.81; 95% CI, 1.26-2.58), anxiety symptoms (OR, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.13-2.67), and severe social isolation (OR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.05-3.87). Similarly, depressive symptoms (OR, 2.37; 95% CI, 1.44-3.88) and anxiety symptoms (OR, 2.10; 95% CI, 1.09-4.05) but not severe social isolation symptoms (OR, 2.07; 95% CI, 0.78-5.49) were significantly associated with self-reported vision impairment. Conclusions and Relevance In this study, vision impairment was associated with several psychosocial outcomes, including symptoms of depression and anxiety and social isolation. These findings provide evidence to support prioritizing research aimed at enhancing the health and inclusion of people with vision impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louay Almidani
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Rhonda Miller
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Varshini Varadaraj
- Johns Hopkins Disability Health Research Center, Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Aleksandra Mihailovic
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Bonnielin K. Swenor
- Johns Hopkins Disability Health Research Center, Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Pradeep Y. Ramulu
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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Almidani L, Varadaraj V, Mihailovic A, Ramulu PY. Using Objective Vision Measures to Explore the Association of Vision Impairment With Cognition Among Older Adults in the United States. Am J Ophthalmol 2023; 255:18-29. [PMID: 37286156 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2023.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the association between vision impairment (VI) and cognitive function using objective measures. DESIGN Cross-sectional analysis with a nationally representative sample. METHODS The association between VI and dementia was investigated in a US population-based, nationally representative sample of Medicare beneficiaries, the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), a nationally representative sample of Medicare beneficiaries aged ≥65 years, using objective vision measures. Exposures included distance VI (>20/40), near VI (>20/40), contrast sensitivity impairment (CSI) (<1.55), any objective VI (distance and near visual acuity, or contrast), and self-reported VI. The main outcome measure was dementia status defined based on survey reports, interviews, and cognitive tests. RESULTS A total of 3026 adults were included in this study; the majority were female (55%) and White (82%). The weighted prevalence rates were 10% for distance VI, 22% for near VI, 22% for CSI, 34% for any objective VI, and 7% for self-reported VI. Across all measures of VI, dementia was more than twice as prevalent in adults with VI compared to their peers without (P < .001 for all). In adjusted models, all measures of VI were associated with higher odds of dementia (distance VI: OR 1.74, 95% CI 1.24-2.44; near VI: OR 1.68, 95% CI 1.29-2.18; CSI: OR 1.95, 95% CI 1.45-2.62; any objective VI: OR 1.83, 95% CI 1.43-2.35; self-reported VI: OR 1.86, 95% CI 1.20-2.89). CONCLUSIONS In a nationally representative sample of older US adults, VI was associated with increased odds of dementia. These results suggest that maintaining good vision and eye health may help preserve cognitive function in older age, although more research is needed to investigate the potential benefits of interventions that focus on vision and eye health on cognitive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louay Almidani
- From the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine (L.A., A.M., P.Y.R.); Johns Hopkins Disability Health Research Center, Johns Hopkins School of Nursing (V.V.), Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Varshini Varadaraj
- From the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine (L.A., A.M., P.Y.R.); Johns Hopkins Disability Health Research Center, Johns Hopkins School of Nursing (V.V.), Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Aleksandra Mihailovic
- From the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine (L.A., A.M., P.Y.R.); Johns Hopkins Disability Health Research Center, Johns Hopkins School of Nursing (V.V.), Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Pradeep Y Ramulu
- From the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine (L.A., A.M., P.Y.R.); Johns Hopkins Disability Health Research Center, Johns Hopkins School of Nursing (V.V.), Baltimore, Maryland, USA..
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Zhang W, Powell DS, Garcia Morales EE, Deal JA, Reed NS. Caregiving Time of Unpaid Family Caregivers Assisting Older Adults With Hearing Difficulty. J Aging Health 2023:8982643231208240. [PMID: 37855830 DOI: 10.1177/08982643231208240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: We aimed to investigate the association of older adults' hearing difficulty status with caregiving time. Methods: We used data from two linked surveys of Medicare beneficiaries and family caregivers. Hearing difficulty was defined by hearing aid use and hearing capacity in functional settings. Weighted multivariable linear regression examined the association between hearing difficulty and caregiving time. Stratified analyses were conducted to investigate the moderation effects of caregiving networks and care recipient's dementia status. Results: Among 3003 caregivers, those who assisted older adults with hearing difficulty were observed to spend greater time providing care (β = 1.18, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.04, 1.32). Stronger associations in magnitude were observed among caregivers without caregiving networks (β = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.13, 1.56) and assisting older adults without dementia (β = 1.22; 95% CI = 1.06, 1.37). Discussion: Hearing difficulty may contribute to greater caregiving time and remains a potential target for caregiver support programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wuyang Zhang
- Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Danielle S Powell
- Department of Hearing & Speech Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Emmanuel E Garcia Morales
- Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Hopkins' Economics of Alzheimer's Disease and Services (HEADS) Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jennifer A Deal
- Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nicholas S Reed
- Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Kumar P, Chung G, Garcia-Morales E, Reed NS, Sheehan OC, Ehrlich JR, Swenor BK, Varadaraj V. Vision difficulty and dementia: economic hardships among older adults and their caregivers. FRONTIERS IN EPIDEMIOLOGY 2023; 3:1210204. [PMID: 38455918 PMCID: PMC10910956 DOI: 10.3389/fepid.2023.1210204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Limited research has examined the economic impact of vision difficulty (VD) and dementia on older adults and their caregivers. We aimed to determine whether older adults with VD and/or dementia, and their caregivers, face more economic hardships than their counterparts without VD or dementia. Methods We used cross-sectional data from the 2015 National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), a population-based survey of Medicare beneficiaries, linked to their family/unpaid caregivers from the National Study of Caregiving (NSOC). Regression models characterized the association of VD (self-report), dementia (survey and cognitive assessments), and co-occurring VD and dementia with debt, receiving financial help from relatives, government-based Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), other food assistance, utility assistance, and caregiver financial difficulty. Results The NHATS sample included 6,879 community-dwelling older adults (5670 no VD/dementia, 494 VD-alone, 512 dementia-alone, 203 co-occurring VD and dementia). Adults with VD and dementia had higher odds of receiving SNAP benefits (OR = 2.6, 95%CI = 1.4-4.8) and other food assistance (OR = 4.1, 95%CI = 1.8-9.1) than adults without VD/dementia, while no differences were noted for debt, financial help, and utility assistance. Adults with VD-alone had higher odds of debt (OR = 2.1, 95%CI = 1.3-3.2), receiving financial help (OR = 1.7, 95%CI = 1.1-2.5) and other food assistance (OR = 2.7, 95%CI = 1.7-4.3); while adults with dementia-alone had higher odds of debt (OR = 2.8, 95%CI = 1.4-5.5). The NSOC sample included 1,759 caregivers (995 caring for adults without VD/dementia, 223 for VD-alone, 368 for dementia-alone, and 173 for co-occurring VD and dementia). Compared to caregivers of older adults without VD/dementia, caregivers of adults with VD and dementia had higher odds of financial difficulty (OR = 3.0, 95%CI = 1.7-5.3) while caregivers of adults with VD-alone or dementia-alone did not. Discussion While older adults with VD- or dementia-alone experienced increased economic hardships, disparities in food assistance were amplified among older adults with co-occurring disease. Caregivers of adults with co-occurring disease experienced more financial difficulty than caregivers of adults with a single or no disease. This study highlights the need for interventions across clinical and social services to support the economic wellbeing of our aging population and their caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Kumar
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland Medical Center Midtown Campus, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Grace Chung
- Department of Health Management and Policy, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Emmanuel Garcia-Morales
- Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Nicholas S. Reed
- Johns Hopkins Disability Health Research Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Orla C. Sheehan
- The Johns Hopkins Center on Aging and Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
- RCSI Hospital Group, Connolly Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Joshua R. Ehrlich
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Bonnielin K. Swenor
- Johns Hopkins Disability Health Research Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
- The Johns University School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Varshini Varadaraj
- Johns Hopkins Disability Health Research Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
- The Johns University School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Zhao X, Lin J, Yu S, Xie L, Jin L, Xiong K, Tsui CK, Xu Y, Wu B, Liu B, Wang W, Congdon N, Huang W, He M, Liang X. Incidence, causes and risk factors of vision loss in rural Southern China: 6-year follow-up of the Yangxi Eye Study. Br J Ophthalmol 2023; 107:1190-1196. [PMID: 35459692 PMCID: PMC10359527 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2021-320892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To report the 6-year incidence, causes and risk factors for vision loss (visual impairment (VI) and blindness), among elderly adults in rural southern China. METHODS Population-based, cohort study. Initiated in 2014, the study recruited participants aged 50 and older using random cluster sampling from Yangxi County. All eligible participants were invited to attend interviews and comprehensive eye examinations at the 6-year follow-up between November 2020 and March 2021. The WHO categories of vision loss were used to define incident cases of VI (3/60≤VA <6/12), moderate-to-severe VI (MSVI) (3/60≤VA<6/18) and blindness (VA <3/60) in the better-seeing eye. RESULTS Among the 5825 baseline participants, 3187 (64.4%) of 4946 surviving subjects participated in the 6-year follow-up. Based on presenting and best-corrected VA, respectively, the crude incidence rate of blindness was 0.8% (95% CI 0.5% to 1.1%) vs 0.3% (95% CI 0.1% to 0.5%), for MSVI 6.7% (95% CI 5.7% to 7.6%) vs 4.6% (95% CI 3.8% to 5.4%) and for any VI 16.1% (95% CI 14.5% to 17.6%) vs 12.9% (95% CI 11.6% to 14.1%). Cataract (48.3%) and refractive errors (44.4%) were the most common causes of vision loss. Factors significantly associated with greater incident vision loss were older age, female sex, less education, living alone and longer axial length (all p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Substantial work is still required to reduce avoidable vision loss in rural China. Screening outreach and efforts to improve awareness which target the poorer and less educated are urgently needed to reduce the growing unmet need for eye care due to ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianqiang Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shanshan Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liqiong Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ling Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kun Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ching-Kit Tsui
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yue Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Benjuan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Nathan Congdon
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Centre for Public Health, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences,Queen's University, Belfast, UK
- Orbis International, New York, New York, USA
| | - Wenyong Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mingguang He
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoling Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
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9
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Varadaraj V, Ehrlich JR, Swenor BK. Vision Impairment Has Implications for Aging and Health Outcomes, Beyond Ophthalmology. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2214610. [PMID: 35608864 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.14610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Varshini Varadaraj
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Johns Hopkins Disability Health Research Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Joshua R Ehrlich
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Bonnielin K Swenor
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Johns Hopkins Disability Health Research Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland
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10
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Lim AJ, Lau CYH, Cheng CY. Applying the Dual Filial Piety Model in the United States: A Comparison of Filial Piety Between Asian Americans and Caucasian Americans. Front Psychol 2022; 12:786609. [PMID: 35185688 PMCID: PMC8850268 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.786609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The definition and measurement of filial piety in existing research primarily focuses on the narrow conceptualizations of Asian filial piety, which would inflate cultural differences and undermine cultural universals in how people approach caring for their elderly parents. Employing the Dual Filial Piety Model (DFPM), this study aimed to examine the relationship between filial piety and attitude toward caring for elderly parents beyond the Asian context. In our study (N = 276), we found that reciprocal filial piety (RFP) does not differ across cultures while authoritarian filial piety (AFP) does. We also found that collectivism, rather than ethnicity, predicted RFP and AFP, which in turn predicted positive attitude toward caring for elderly parents. Our work demonstrates the cross-cultural applicability of the DFPM and highlights the universal and culture-specific aspects of filial piety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy J Lim
- Discipline of Psychology, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Clement Yong Hao Lau
- School of Social Sciences, Singapore Management University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chi-Ying Cheng
- School of Social Sciences, Singapore Management University, Singapore, Singapore
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11
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Enoch J, Dickinson C, Subramanian A. What support do caregivers of people with visual impairment receive and require? An exploratory study of UK healthcare and charity professionals' perspectives. Eye (Lond) 2021; 36:2179-2187. [PMID: 34743210 PMCID: PMC8572072 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-021-01821-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous research has established that some informal caregivers (relatives/friends) of people with visual impairment (PVI) may require support themselves. However, there is limited understanding of how healthcare services and sight charities in the UK currently support caregivers. This study was therefore conducted to explore what support, information, and advice healthcare and charity professionals (HCCPs) currently provide for caregivers, and which additional support HCCPs would recommend in order to benefit caregivers. Methods HCCPs filled out an online survey, distributed among UK-based professional bodies and charity partners. Of 104 individuals who consented to participate, 68 (65%) HCCPs completed the survey in September–November 2019. Participants responded to Likert-type questions about how they interact with and support caregivers of PVI. Thirty-eight (56%) participants provided responses to open-ended questions about improving support for caregivers; qualitative analysis was conducted using the Framework Method. Results The survey showed that caregiver support activities most commonly undertaken related to onward signposting (90% (95% CI: 82–97%) of participants), or providing information about low vision aids and adaptations (85% (95% CI: 77–94%)), compared to activities focused on broader caregiver wellbeing. In open-ended responses, HCCPs highlighted the difficulties caregivers face in navigating an under-resourced and complex system. They recommended improving coordination and accessibility of information, as well as provision of emotional support and tangible assistance such as respite care and financial support. Conclusions The study suggests that HCCPs perceive significant unmet needs among caregivers of PVI, and would welcome further resources, information, and training to support caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Enoch
- Division of Optometry and Visual Sciences, School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
| | | | - Ahalya Subramanian
- Division of Optometry and Visual Sciences, School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK.
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