Ageing and disability: A person-centered perspective.

Abstract

A low-vision service based on improving the life of elderly people exists at Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia. Such a service is becoming essential in many parts of the world as increasing numbers of elderly people are helped to retain satisfactorily independent lives. This low-vision service recognises benefits of technology, but looks beyond an improvement in a persons' functional abilities towards the achievement of a better quality of life. The most sophisticated technology is of benefit only when it is accepted by the person for whom it is intended. Motivation to use an aid, and its perceived relevance, are crucial factors. A number of case studies are described indicating the variety of strategies that have successfully met individual needs. Many are compensatory and involve minor but creative solutions. There is scope to appraise any elderly person's wishes and to make adjustments with regard to their specific environment and community.