Determinants of social participation of visually impaired older adults

• Published in: Quality of life research 2012-02, Vol.21 (1), p.87-97
• Main Authors: Alma, Manna A., Van der Mei, Sijrike F., Groothoff, Johan W., Suurmeijer, Theo P. B. M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Aging; Blindness; CLINICAL AND POLICY APPLICATIONS; Cognitive models; Cross-Sectional Studies; Disabilities; Disability; Fatigue; Households; Humans; Interpersonal interaction; Interviews; Interviews as Topic; Medicine; Medicine & Public Health; Middle Aged; Modeling; Netherlands; Older adults; Older people; Participation; Physical health; Public Health; Quality of life; Quality of Life Research; Rehabilitation; Social classes; Social interaction; Social Participation; Sociodemographics; Sociology; Values; Visual impairment; Visually Impaired Persons
• ISSN: 0962-9343; 1573-2649
• DOI: 10.1007/s11136-011-9931-6

Purpose To assess determinants of social participation among visually impaired older adults. Methods This cross-sectional study included visually impaired persons (≥55 years; n = 173) who were referred to a low-vision rehabilitation center. Determinants (i.e., sociodemographic, physical, social and psychological factors, and personal values) of participation were identified in four domains of participation: (1) domestic life; (2) interpersonal interactions and relationships; (3) major life areas; and (4) community, social, and civic life. Study participants completed telephone interviews. Results Age, physical fitness, and helplessness were determinants of participation in domestic life. Social network size was associated with participation in major life areas. The personal value attached to participation (i.e., perceived importance) was a determinant of participation in interpersonal interactions and relationships, major life areas, and community, social and civic life. Vision-related characteristics (i.e., self-perceived vision and degree of visual impairment) were not associated with participation. Conclusions Across the participation domains, perceived importance is a major determinant of social participation among visually impaired older adults. Physical health along with social and psychological status, also affect participation. Knowing how participation is determined can be used to develop rehabilitation interventions to enhance participation of visually impaired older adults.