Psychosocial impact of visual impairment in working age adults A review of the scientific literature addressing the psychosocial well-being in working age adults with visual impairment reports that there are higher rates of mental health, social functioning, and quality of life problems among persons with vision impairment.

Systematic review of quantitative studies published in English from 2001 to July 2008 that measured: depression / mental health, anxiety, quality of life, social functioning, or social support.

Included were 29 studies that measured one or more outcomes (n = 52). Working age adults with visual impairment were significantly more likely to report lower levels of mental health, social functioning, and quality of life. Studies regarding the prevalence of depressive symptoms produced inconsistent results.

The investigators conclude that more research is required into the prevalence of loneliness, anxiety, and depression in adults with visual impairment, and to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions for improving psychosocial well-being such as counselling, peer support, and employment programmes.

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Br J Ophthalmol. 2009 Oct 22. [Epub ahead of print]