Head Trauma and Vision: What Can Be Done

Traumatic brain injury often results in loss of vision – visual field and acuity. Dr. Danielle Rutner, SUNY College of Optometry University Eye Center Chief of Neuro-Optometric Vision Rehabilitation, discusses the impact and how to help those affected in “Traumatic Brain Injury and Vision.” For Dr. Rutner’s comments, click here. For more information on Traumatic Brain Injury and Vision
Visual Impairment and Mental Health: Unmet Needs and Treatment Options
Visual impairment often is associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety and other mental health issues, especially among the growing number of older adults experiencing the onset of vision loss. “Moreover, individuals of lower socioeconomic status may be at increased risk for vision impairment and subsequent mental health problems.” A recent article published by Dove Press/Clinical Ophthalmology, “Visual Impairment and Mental Health: Unmet Needs and Treatment Options,” reviews literature on mental health outcomes as well as existing treatments in people with vision impairment, including vision rehabilitation.  The article examines the intersection of vision impairment and socioeconomic factors involved in receiving health and medical care, and mental health consequences. Among its conclusions are the need for improved overall medical and eye care, particularly to combat preventable vision loss, as well as better screening for mental health changes and increased access to effective treatment and mental health professionals trained to understand the psychological consequences of vision loss. Read the full article here.