Comparative Analysis of Quality of Life Questionnaires in Low Vision Patients

Abstract

Low vision affects large number of people globally, which can interfere with daily activities and lower quality of life. Objective: To evaluate the results of the Low Vision Quality of Life Questionnaire (LVQOL) and the National Eye Institute VFQ-25 as measures of patients' quality of life. Methods: Between August-October 2022, a comparative cross-sectional study was carried out at Madina Teaching Hospital, Faisalabad. Through Non-Probability Purposive Sampling Technique, 40 patients were included. Participants who were between the ages of 25 and 55, having visual acuity of less than 6/18 and had a visual field that did not extend more than 10° from the fixation point were considered. Every patient underwent a thorough ocular examination, which included testing for near visual acuity, BCVA, tonometry, fundus examination, and slit lamp bio microscopy. Results: Participants' average age was 47 ± 2.71. 17(42.5%) were female, whereas 23(57.5%) were male. Demographic data were recorded. Retinitis pigmentosa affected 12(30%) of patients, and age-related macular degeneration affected 9(22.5%) of the patients. Remaining diagnoses included glaucoma 8(20%), albinism 4(10 %), diabetic retinopathy 4(10%) and degenerative myopia 3(7.5 %). NEI VFQ-25 and LVQOL questionnaire's mean overall scores were 41 ± 5.02 and 44 ± 4.89 respectively. Ratings can vary from 0-100, with 0 representing the worst and 100 denoting no visual impairment. Conclusions: NEI VFQ-25 composite scores and LVQOL had a strong correlation. Especially useful for analyzing the growth of low-vision rehabilitation since they can be used to gauge the quality of life for people with vision impairment.