Malinovskaya Irina V.

Relevance. Studies of Quality of Life (QOL) are among the most topical concerns for both psychological and medical research. Although there are many studies abroad, very few have been done in Russia, and with regard to QOL in relation to vision problems they are practically non-existent.

Objectives:

1. To develop a Russian-language questionnaire for QOL in relation to vision disorders and the results of their treatment.

2. To measure the relationship among a priori subjective estimations of visual function, expectations of treatment results, and estimations of treatment effects.

Method. A pilot investigation was conducted using a questionnaire that we devised for QOL in relation to vision impairment. It included three informational blocks: The first was devoted to a priori estimations of visual problems; the second integrated the patient’s expectations concerning different effects of treatment, and the last estimated the treatment results.  Nineteen patients with keratoconus took part in the research.

Results.The diagnostic value of the method we developed was empirically confirmed. Ways to fine-tune it to the level of a standardized questionnaire were identified. The comparisons among a priori subjective estimations of visual function, expectations of treatment results, and estimations of treatment effects make it possible to describe the dynamics of QOL. It was shown that subjective estimations of vision are nor related to the objective quality of vision and are probably determined by personality characteristics. Respondents’ treatment results expectations were found to be quite generalized. There are some differences between expectations and estimations of treatment effects: The respondents usually a priori overvalued the instrumental results of the treatment and underestimated the personality-oriented ones.

Conclusions.

1. The questionnaire could be used for QOL investigations. This method could be widely used after appropriate standardization procedures are introduced. 

2. Subjective estimations of visual function are not related to the objective quality of vision and are probably determined by personality characteristics.

3. Among the most significant effects of treatment, even though underestimated a priori by the patients, concerned the following aspects of QOL: a positive future-time perspective, life planning, emotional status, and self-conception.