A self-management program for low vision: Program overview and pilot evaluation

PURPOSE: This article describes a new low vision-specific self-management (SM) program for older adults with vision impairment, and provides preliminary data on program evaluation from two small pilot groups. METHOD: The SM program was an 8-week, structured group program aiming to enhance participants' skills to manage the practical and emotional consequences of vision impairment. The pilot evaluation was a single group post-test design. Participants took part in a structured interview to obtain their views on the content, format and delivery of the program. RESULTS: The program was perceived as useful and the duration and level of information provided were deemed appropriate. Participants reported the program to have a positive impact on their mood, understanding of low vision and services available and their ability to manage the challenges of low vision. CONCLUSIONS: The content and delivery of the program is appropriate for older individuals with vision impairment. Further work is required to provide a methodologically sound evaluation of this program and contribute to the evidence-base regarding the effectiveness of approaches to vision rehabilitation.