Geriatric optometry and low vision

Knowledge of refraction testing procedures. Passing of subjects: Optometric Laboratory I and II, Introduction to Binocular Vision.

Classroom

The lecture addresses the theoretical and practical aspects of geriatric optometry. Topics range from medical to socio-psychological issues. Elements of examination and rehabilitation of visually impaired patients are covered.

Age-related changes in the visual system:

a) physiological

b) pathological

Profile of the patient in advanced age:

a) psychological aspect

b) physical aspect – concomitant illnesses and disabilities

c) social aspect – occupational requirements, driving, place of the older person in society

Optometric examination of older people:

a) method of examination - measurement techniques, devices, tests

b) methods of correcting refractive errors and binocular vision – spectacles, contact lenses, problem of presbyopia, visual training

Low vision phenomenon:

a) groups of visually impaired patients

b) psychological and social aspects of low vision

c) low vision in elderly people

Optometric examination and rehabilitation of visually impaired patients:

a) method of examination - measurement techniques, devices, tests

b) rehabilitation of spatial orientation

c) cooperation with other professionals in the care of the visually impaired patient

Public assistance for visually impaired patients:

a) factual assistance - centres, institutions and associations for the visually impaired

b) social and financial assistance - facilities offered by the state, reimbursement of visual aids, vocational activation of the visually impaired

Ethical issues in optometric care for older people and visually impaired.

Obligatory literature:

T. Grosvenor, Optometria, rozdziały 17, 18 i 19.

Optional literature:

Global report on ageism. World Health Organization; 2021.

Global report on health equity for persons with disabilities. World Health

Organization; 2022.

World report on vision. World Health Organization; 2019.

K. Gołaszewska, J. Zimnoch, J. Konopińska. Deficyty widzenia w następstwie niedotlenienia mózgu – ubytki pola widzenia po udarze. Stany Nagłe po Dyplomie nr 03/2020.

Jakość życia osób starszych w Polsce. Główny Urząd Statystyczny, 2020.

K. Kowalski. Włącznik - projektowanie bez barier. Fundacja Integracja, 2018.

The student knows age-related changes in the visual system and their consequences and is familiar with the ways of working with elderly and visually impaired patients. The student is able to recognise and characterise the visual problems of elderly and visually impaired patients, is able to react to them in an appropriate way understanding the consequences of his/her actions and is aware of the necessity of cooperation with other specialists in the scope of taking care of elderly and visually impaired patients.

Written examination

not applicable