Improving Vision to Prevent Falls: A Randomised Trial
Improving Vision to Prevent Falls: A Randomised Trial
Background
Falls and visual impairment are both common problems among older Australians: 40% of people aged 75 years or older fall at least once a year and 20% of people this age have visual acuity worse than 20/40. Visual impairment is an important risk factor for falls and fractures.
Aims
The primary objective of this study is to assess the effect of identifying and treating visual impairment on risk of falls. The secondary objectives are to assess the effect of identifying and treating visual impairment on activities of daily living and vision-related activities of daily living, health- and vision-related quality of life, fear of falling, fractures and admission to aged care institutions.
Methods
This study is a randomised trial with subjects randomised to one of two groups: a control group and a group having tests of visual function and an eye examination, followed where necessary by appropriate interventions to improve vision and reduce disability caused by impaired vision (including new spectacles, cataract surgery or other appropriate eye treatment, such as laser therapy, and vision-related home modifications and aids). Falls during follow-up are ascertained with a falls calendar system.
Status/Results:
Subject recruitment commenced in late August 2002 and continued until June 2004. Follow-up of all participants was completed in July 2005. The main results paper was published in early 2007.
Institute Investigators:
Funding Agencies:
Collaboration:
- Centre for Education and Research on Ageing, Concord Hospital
- Centre for Vision Research, Westmead Hospital