Quality of Life after Attended at the Low Vision Clinic

Vannee Deajakoom, B.Sc., MHPEd.

Soontaree Aupapong, B.Sc., M.Ed.

Sopa Wattananikorn, M.D.

Somsanguan Ausayakhun, M.D., M.H.Sc.

ABSTRACT : The objective of the study is to report the characteristics of the low vision patients who attended at the low vision clinic of Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University during 22 December 1987 to 31 December 1999 and assessment the quality of life after receiving the low vision devices. The total patients were 107, 80 (74.8%) were male and 27 (25.2%) were female. The predominant age group were the working age group (42.1%) and the school age group (40.2%). The etiologic diseases were diseases of retina (46.7%). Level of low vision was mostly the first level (48.6%). Educational level was predominantly primary school (54.8%). Type of low vision devices were the stand magnifier (27.1%). The quality of life was assessment by sending questionnaires to 66 patients who response 42 patients (63.6%). Level change of ability of daily living which highest increased was hobby (64.8%) and level change of ability of social activity which highest increased was studying (42.9%).

Thai J Ophthalmol 2000 ; January-June 14(1) :27-38.