Vision Screening in Hospitals for Older Adults Following a Fall

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAM · Oct 15, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking into how to better check and treat vision problems in older adults who come to the hospital after a fall. Falls are a common issue for people over 65 and can lead to serious consequences like pain, injuries, and loss of independence. Research shows that vision problems can increase the risk of falling, yet many hospitals do not follow the guidelines that recommend checking eyesight in these patients. This study aims to understand why this is happening and how to improve vision screening in hospitals, which could help prevent further falls and support better overall health for older adults.

To participate in this study, you need to be 65 years or older and have experienced at least one fall that required a visit to the emergency department. Caregivers of older adults who meet this criteria can also join. The study will involve focus groups where health professionals discuss how they check vision, and older adults and their caregivers share their thoughts on eye care. The goal is to develop a practical way to check vision for older patients after a fall, ensuring that their needs are met effectively. If you’re interested in helping improve care for older adults, this trial could be a great opportunity to make a difference.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• Part one- Focus group study (with healthcare professionals):
• • Aged 18 years or above
• • Health professionals at NUHT
• • Must be involved in falls assessments/ management/ care of older falls patients as part of current/ previous role at NUHT.
• Part two- Focus group study (with service users/ carers):
• • Adults ≥65 years
• • Had at least 1 fall requiring attendance at an emergency department
• • Carers of adults ≥65 who have had at least 1 fall requiring attendance at an emergency department
• Part three- Intervention development using Delphi study:
• • Aged 18 years or above
• • Knowledge and experience of falls assessments and management in hospitals for older people
• • Experience of the assessment and management of impaired vision in older people
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Those who are unable to give voluntary informed consent.
• • Those who have not sought secondary care following a fall.