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Decreased Depression With Increased Independence September 23, 2023 |
Hello Decreased Depression With Increased IndependenceIt's no surprise that along with the loss of being able to perform hobbies or everyday living activities comes feelings of depression or low mood. Asking others to shop, cook, pay bills or drive is difficult and often leads to sadness and a sense of hopelessness that one's situation is never going to get better.
A study published by Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science discovered that through occupational therapy intervention one could impact the participant's level of depression. All patients in the study received a low vision evaluation and training in the office. The participants were then split into two groups. One group received verbal support in dealing with their vision loss with no practical training while the other group received in home sessions with an occupational therapist.
During the in-home visits patients learned how to pour coffee or milk without spilling, how to manage their bills and checkbook, and how to perform other daily tasks without assistance. Both groups were re-evaluated after four months. Not surprisingly those that received the in-home visits performed every day activities better and more independently than those who did not have home visits. Along with improved independence, the study found participants' moods were improved as well. Discover other ways that you can benefit from low vision occupational therapy to improve your independence and your mood: How Low Vision Occupational Therapy Can Help Increase Your Independence and Improve Your Mood Leslie Degner, RN, BSN Better Health for Better Vision |
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