Assessment Strategies and Evidence-Based Solutions for Low Vision

Low vision is defined as visual impairment that cannot be corrected with standard refractive, therapeutic, or surgicalmethods. Physical and occupational therapy play an integral role in improving functional independence and enhancing remaining vision to prevent or minimize disability. Twelve million Americans are living with age-related macular degeneration and 3.36 million Americans are living with Glaucoma; two of the most common eye diseases resulting in low vision and blindness in older adults. Visual impairment in older adults often leads to negative impacts on overall health and significant difficulty with ADLs

This workshop will provide attendees with the skillsneeded to effectively assess and treat those affected by low vision. This course aims to add value to clinical practice and clients overall health by improving objectively measured outcomes, increasing ADL independence, preventing falls, and functional decline. This workshop employs a wide varietyof teaching and learning methods to maximize retention and carryover for next-day application into clinical practice. This course  includes problem-based learning, handson labs, lectures, videos, and interactive discussion. As clinicians, we should always remember that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!

Target Audience: Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy Assistants

Highlights

• Explain four common age-related and pathologic changes affecting older adults that result in low vision.
• Employ five assessment tools to identify vision related impairments resulting in mobility disability or fall risk.
• Describe five environmental or home modifications for practical application of vision loss that can immediately improve function and prevent accidents.
• Implement five evidence-based treatment strategies for next-day clinical application.
• Summarize three all-inclusive lifestyle changes to prevent vision loss and functional decline.
• Integrate effective clinical reasoning into treatment plans through interactive case study problem-based learning.