Effects of individualised vision-focused Occupational Therapy on patient-reported outcomes following post-COVID-19 visual impairment

Abstract

Introduction:

Occupational therapists play a crucial role in identifying and addressing residual visual function impairments—such as oculomotor and binocular dysfunctions—as part of comprehensive neurorehabilitation. This study aimed to describe the effects of individualised, vision-focused occupational therapy on patient-reported outcomes among individuals with post-COVID-19 visual dysfunction.

Method:

A retrospective before-and-after design was employed. Thirty-six consecutive patients with confirmed visual impairment following COVID-19 infection participated. Visual function screening was followed by tailored occupational therapy targeting visual deficits. The primary outcome was a domain-specific adaptation of the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure. Secondary outcomes included the Convergence Insufficiency Symptom Survey and the Mental Fatigue Scale.

Results:

Significant improvements were observed in occupational performance (p < 0.001) and satisfaction with performance (p < 0.001). Mental fatigue and self-rated symptoms during near activities were also significantly reduced (both p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Identifying the daily occupations most affected by visual impairments enables occupational therapists to effectively target interventions. Individualised, vision-focused occupational therapy improved patient-reported occupational performance and alleviated associated symptoms.

Keywords

activity mental fatigue optometry participation rehabilitation

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