Technology for older adults with age-related vision loss (ARVL): What do occupational therapists need to know?

Older adults constitute the fastest growing segment of the population with age-related vision loss (ARVL), including macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy (Watson, 2001). Despite its overwhelming presence, ARVL is under-treated with older adults commonly waiting between five and seven years after diagnosis before accessing low-vision rehabilitation services, including assistive technology. This webinar will engage occupational therapists in understanding the variety of factors that influence an older adults’ decision-making process regarding the acquisition of low vision devices as well as introduce occupational therapists to some of the technologies that may help support the occupational engagement of older adults with low vision. 

1. Define age-related vision loss and identify some of the associated occupational challenges.
2. Identify technologies available to support the occupational engagement of older adults with age-related vision loss.
3. Apply your new knowledge/understanding to a relevant case study.