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Prevalence and Risk Factors for Self-Reported Visual Impairment Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults

Mark Brennan

Joann P. Reinhardt

Lighthouse International, Arlene R. Gordon Research Institute

This study examined the prevalence of and risk factors for self-reported visual impairment among American adults. Data were collected via telephone interviews with a nationally representative sample (n= 1,219) aged 45 and older and were weighted for population parameter estimates. Hierarchical logistic regression examined independent risk factors of self-reported visual impairment. Seventeen percent of adults aged 45 and older self-reported visual impairments, increasing to 26.5% of those aged 75 and older. Greater age, not being Hispanic, in poor or fair self-rated health, and low availability of informal social support were significant risk factors associated with visual impairment. The prevalence of vision problems among adults suggests unmet needs for both basic eye care and vision rehabilitation interventions to reduce functional limitations that can result from visual impairment. Longitudinal research is needed to examine prevalence and incidence of vision loss as a function of population aging and changing health behaviors.

Key Words: visual impairment • disability • public health

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