755 Older people with low vision and blindness have a high rate of falls, poor physical function and low levels of physical activity

Background Poor vision has been associated with an increased risk of falls. However, longitudinal data are lacking, which could inform programs to enable safe mobility in older people with low vision and blindness. Objective To describe the incidence of falls, physical function and level of physical activity in older people with low vision and blindness living in the community. Methods Falls were reported prospectively using monthly falls calendars with active follow-up in people aged 50 years and older who were accessing orientation and mobility services from a community organisation for people with low vision and blindness. Physical performance was assessed using the short physical performance battery (SPPB). Activity was self-reported using the Incidental and Planned Exercise Questionnaire (IPEQ) at baseline and 12 months. Results Average age was 73±11 years (range 50–99), 171/294 (58%) were female, visual acuity was a median of 1.0 logMAR (inter-quartile range [IQR] 0.4–1.9), 225/294 (76.5%) had peripheral visual field loss and 242/294 (82.3%) used a mobility aid. There was an average of 2.1±3.8 falls per year and 1.2±1.8 falls per year requiring medical care. The SPPB score was 7.90±2.9, which is lower than age-matched population norms. Total incidental and planned physical activity was an average of 23.9±15.8 hours per week at baseline and 25.6±17.1 hours per week at 12 months. Conclusions This study found a high rate of falls, with on average at least one fall per year requiring medical care. Orientation and mobility programs can support safe and independent travel, but additional programs are required to prevent fall related injuries in older people with low vision and blindness.