The relationship among frequency and type of internet use, perceived social support, and sense of well-being in individuals with visual impairments

Abstract

Purpose. To determine the relationship among amount and type of internet use and perceived social support and subjective well-being in persons with visual impairments.

Method. One hundred seventy-five participants were recruited through a letter sent out over 46 national and state listservs for persons with visual impairments and blindness. The mean age of participants was 46.7 years (SD = 13.3), and 50.9% were women. The participants completed a survey containing a demographic questionnaire, an internet use questionnaire, the personal resources questionnaire – 2000 (PRQ-2000), and the sense of well-being inventory (SWBI).

Results. Frequency and type of internet use was not significantly related to perceived social support in persons with visual impairments. There was a marginally significant positive association between internet use and overall sense of well-being. Specifically, online chat had a positive association with social support and well-being. Disability-related information seeking and participation in online support groups were negatively associated with well-being.

Conclusions. Despite the mixed results of this study, the internet has potential practical implications for increasing the independence and social connectedness in persons with visual impairments.

Keywords:

• Visual impairments
• well-being
• social support
• internet

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