Interventions that Facilitate the Occupational Engagement of Older Adults with Age-Related Vision Loss: Findings from a Scoping Review

ABSTRACT

Aims: This study aimed to identify the most effective interventions that facilitate the occupational engagement of older adults with age-related vision loss (ARVL). Methods: Three researchers completed this scoping review, which followed Arksey and O'Malley's five-step framework. A total of 61 search combinations across five databases was completed, resulting in a final yield of 16 articles. Results: Three categories of interventions were identified including: self-management programs, compensatory interventions (e.g. assistive devices and self-regulating strategies), and relying on social supports (e.g. relying on others, community resources, and peer support). Conclusion: The study results revealed an overwhelming focus on interventions targeted at the level of the individual, with few studies exploring environmental influences on occupational engagement. It is important that future research explores environmental influences as well, in order to optimize occupational therapy treatment for older adults with vision loss.

KEYWORDS:

• Older adults
• age-related vision loss
• occupational therapy
• interventions
• occupational engagement
• scoping review

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the article.