Functional Visual Impairment in Glaucomatous Visual Field Defect

蕭雅娟 Ya-Chuan HsiaoTaiwan Speaker Functional Visual Impairment in Glaucomatous Visual Field DefectGlaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Visual field defects resulting from optic nerve damage can impair peripheral awareness and interfere with daily functioning. This study aimed to evaluate the association between visual field loss and vision-related quality of life (VRQOL) in glaucoma patients. A total of 73 patients (male: female = 34:39; mean age 60.53 ± 14.41 years) were enrolled. Mean intra-ocular pressure (IOP) was 13.77 ± 3.89 mmHg in the right eye and 13.98 ± 3.77 mmHg in the left eye. Vision-related quality of life was assessed using the validated Taiwanese version of the NEI VFQ-25(T). Visual field severity was quantified using mean defect (MD), pattern deviation (PD), and corrected pattern deviation (CPD). Patients reported substantial reductions in general health and general vision. Near-vision activities were more affected than distance-related tasks. Role difficulties and mild impairment in social functioning were also observed. Among the 30 respondents to driving-related items, mild functional limitations were noted but showed wide variability. Common daily-life challenges included reading difficulties, face recognition problems, shopping obstacles, limitations in electronic device use and public transportation, and fear of falling or using stairs. These findings highlight the significant impact of visual field loss on functional independence in glaucoma. Rehabilitation strategies—such as reading aids or mobility-oriented interventions—should be tailored to address specific VRQOL deficits in patients with peripheral visual impairment.