Analysis of the differeing levels of visual function of elderly people participating in a local activity

Abstract

  The purpose of this study was to analyze the level and function of eyesight of elderly people who participated in a local gathering. We considered the level of sight, the situation, and the function of optical aids to determine the association between visual function and the activity level of elderly people. Questionnaires were sent to 141 people who participated in a local health gathering of Aichi N city S area in July, 2013 and answers were obtained from 72 people (51.1%). The respondents were divided into two groups with a respective baseline near/distance vision of 0.5 and four groups based on usage rate of visual aids. ADL, feeling of disability, IADL, and falls were set as dependent variables and a comparison was made. The results showed that in everyday life, the average level of eyesight for distance vision was 0.63±0.29, while near vision was 0.44±0.21. The two proximity vision groups showed a significant difference between visual aids and text reading and walking (p<0.5). The analysis of the four groups based on use of visual aids showed a significant difference between proximity vision and feeling of disability (p<0.5). This data showed a correlation between proximity vision and feelings of disability (walking, reading, et cetera). We found a general level of 0.7 of distance vision, with near vision at around 0.5. Based on the results of observations, it was considered that correcting distance vision would probably allow daily life to be lived without feeling inconvenience so much when it lived a life to suppress the balance of spoke Minato was suggested.