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Results obtained with low vision aids

A retrospective study

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Abstract

In this retrospective study of 261 patients (181 female and 80 male) the results obtained in a special low vision clinic are described. The mean age of the patients was 73.5 years (range 16–95 years). Visual acuity of the best eye was ⩽0.08 in 26 patients (10.0%); better than 0.08 but ⩽0.25 in 130 (50%); 0.30 in 62 (23.8%) and better than 0.30 in 42 patients (16.1%). Persons with a visual acuity better than 0.30 either could not read normal print or had restricted visual fields. Main causes of visual impairment were macular degeneration (38.9%), diabetic retinopathy (16.1%), glaucoma (8.4%) and cataract (7.4%). Low vision aids could be prescribed for 208 persons (79.7%). Follow-up of an average of 12 months (range, 3–22 months) was carried out in 250 cases (96%). In this period 24 patients (9%) died. At least 161 persons (62%) used their aids regularly, i.e. 77% of the patients who were given a low vision aid.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Ophthalmology, Elkerliek Hospital, Helmond, The Netherlands

    G. H. M. B. Van Rens MD, PhD & R. J. M. Chmielowski

  2. Department of Statistical Consultations, Catholic University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands

    W. A. J. G. Lemmens

Authors
  1. G. H. M. B. Van Rens MD, PhD
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  2. R. J. M. Chmielowski
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  3. W. A. J. G. Lemmens
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Van Rens, G.H.M.B., Chmielowski, R.J.M. & Lemmens, W.A.J.G. Results obtained with low vision aids. Doc Ophthalmol 78, 205–210 (1991). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00165682

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00165682

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