Abstract
The health and social circumstances of a random sample of 82 guide dog owners in Scotland were investigated in comparison with two other groups of visually impaired people (hospital low vision clinic patients and social services rehabilitation clients) as part of a research study on the ophthalmic and visual profile of guide dog owners. All participants completed an orally presented questionnaire to identify ophthalmic history and social and health status. Guide dog users were found to be younger, healthier, and more mobile than either of the other groups of visually impaired persons. They also showed greater independence, confidence, and acceptance of their visual impairment. Educational, employment, and accommodation circumstances of guide dog owners in relation to other visually impaired persons are discussed. Eighty-nine percent of the owners felt that the guide dog brought about a major improvement in their perception of their quality of life. In addition to increased mobility, benefits of guide dog ownership included increased social contacts and enhanced mental and physical well-being.