Document Type

Article (Restricted)

Publication Date

1-1-2009

Abstract

Objective. This study aimed at evaluating the relationship between severity of visual impairment and depression among elderly Malaysians attending an eye clinic. Methods. This was a cross-sectional study. The study population included patients, aged >= 60 years who attended the Eye Clinic in University Malaya Medical Centre. Exposure measurement was based on ophthalmologic examinations by an ophthalmologist. Data on outcome were measured using the Geriatric Depression Scale. Results. After adjusting for important confounders, severity of visual impairment either having low vision or blind were independent risk factors of depression. The odds of developing depression among elderly with low vision were 2 times more than those with normal vision, and elderly who were blind had almost 5 times the odds to be depressed compared with those having normal vision. Conclusion. Findings from this study suggest a positive relationship between the severity of visual impairment and depression among elderly Malaysians.

Keywords

Blinds, Depression, Elderly, Low Vision

Publication Title

Asia Pacific Journal of Public Health

ISSN

1010-5395

Divisions

fac_med

Volume

21

Issue

1

Publisher

SAGE Publications

Additional Information

Noran, Naqiah Hairi Izzuna, Muldha Ghazali Bulgiba, Awang Mahmud Mimiwati, Zahari Ayu, Said Mas -------------> Suggested Citation : Noran NH, Izzuna MG, Bulgiba AM, Mimiwati Z, Ayu SM. Severity of Visual Impairment and Depression Among Elderly Malaysians. Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health. 2009 Jan;21(1):43-50.

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