bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Recreation and Leisure Pursuits of Employed Adults with Visual Impairments in Nigeria: Part 2
Authors: Ajuwon Paul M. , Kelly Stacy M. , Wolffe Karen E. 
Published: December 2018

Introduction Indoor and outdoor activities play an important role in enhancing the health and well-being of people with and without disabilities in developed countries. The status of recreational activities, however, is not a priority in many developing countries—those in which people struggle daily to eke out a living. This study investigates the recreation and leisure experiences of employed adults with visual impairments (those who are blind or have low vision) who live and work in Nigeria—one of the world's most populous developing nations. Methods We developed a questionnaire that assessed recreation and leisure among a sample of 172 adults with visual impairments living and working in Nigeria. Statistical analysis procedures included descriptive and nonparametric methods. The Mann-Whitney U-test compared the difference between the mean ranks of five recreational experience measures (dependent variables) within the independent groups. Results Gender, degree of visual impairment, age at onset of visual impairment, educational attainment, annual income, and postsecondary education were all characteristics that evidenced significant differences ( p < .05) in the participants’ recreation and leisure experiences that were evaluated. Discussion Male respondents with visual impairments and those with higher earning power were engaged more often in recreation and leisure than were female respondents or those with less robust financial situations. Furthermore, recreational activities were most important to quality of life for respondents who had at least one postsecondary degree. Individuals with low vision reported higher levels of satisfaction than those who are blind. Implications for practitioners It is imperative for stakeholders to explore opportunities that will increase the level of participation in recreation of people with visual impairments of both genders and all degrees of financial earning power in developing nations. The value of postsecondary education is underscored.
The Role of Visual Experience in Changing the Size of Objects in Imagery Processing
Authors: Szubielska Magdalena , Marek Bogusław 
Published: December 2018

Introduction This paper investigates the question of whether or not subjects who are congenitally blind experience greater difficulties mentally in resizing images of objects than those who have low vision or are adventitiously blind. Methods Two experiments were conducted: one in which subjects were asked to mentally enlarge objects they previously explored manually, and one in which subjects were tested for the ability to demonstrate the change in the size of an object imagined to be moving away. Three groups of high school students with visual impairments took part in the experiment: congenitally blind, “late blind,” and those with low vision. Results When showing the linear size of an object enlarged in their imagination, congenitally blind participants overestimated its size more frequently than those who were late blind. The degree of mental reduction of the size of an object imagined to be moving away was comparable for all groups. Discussion The results suggest that the difficulties experienced by congenitally blind participants with the mental resizing of objects may be related to problems with performing mental scaling transformations. In the low vision group, the etiology of the subjects’ visual impairment was not taken into consideration. The group turned out to be heterogeneous with respect to imagery processes. Implications for practitioners When using models for explaining new concepts, it is important to ensure that congenitally blind learners understand the change of scale.
Assessment of Physical Activity of People with Visual Impairments and Individuals who Are Sighted Using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and Actigraph
Authors: Sadowska Dorota , Krzepota Justyna 
Published: December 2018

Introduction The aim of this study was to analyze the results of walking assessments and total energy expenditure based on a questionnaire and accelerometer measurements among people with visual impairments and those who are sighted. Methods The study included 25 persons with visual impairments and 25 individuals who are sighted, age 32.3 ± 5.3 years. A weekly measurement of physical activity using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire long form (IPAQ-LF) and accelerometer GTX3 ActiGraph was conducted. Results It was demonstrated that visual impairment affects walking ability, insofar as it reduces the number of steps taken in a day ( p ≤ .05) (ActiGraph); it does not, however, differentiate physical activity level (IPAQ-LF). Moreover, there has been observed a lower energy expenditure in people with visual impairments in relation to intensive ( p ≤ .01) and moderate-level ( p ≤ .001) physical activity. In the group of people with visual impairments, a correlation ( p ≤ .05) was observed between the energy expenditure associated with walking (IPAQ-LF) and the total weekly energy expenditure associated with physical activity (ActiGraph). Also, a correlation ( p ≤ .05) was observed between the total weekly energy expenditure associated with physical activity in the IPAQ-LF and ActiGraph. Discussion Regardless of the method used to measure physical activity, on average, participants with visual impairments took a smaller number of steps than participants who were sighted. However, the average number of steps taken by participants with visual impairments was much higher than the 3,500–5,000 steps recommended as healthy for a person with disabilities. Implications for practitioners IPAQ-LF and ActiGraph are effective methods of monitoring physical activity in persons with visual impairments, and may be used in supporting activities that promote taking up physical activity.
Rapid Assessment of Refractive Error, Presbyopia, and Visual Impairment and Associated Quality of Life in Nampula, Mozambique
Authors: Loughman James , Nxele Lindelwa L. , Faria Cesar , Thompson Stephen , Ramson Prasidh , Chinanayi Farai , Naidoo Kovin S. 
Published: December 2018

Introduction Uncorrected refractive error is the leading cause of visual impairment worldwide and leads to an impaired quality of life. This study was designed to determine the prevalence of uncorrected refractive error and presbyopia, to assess spectacle coverage, and to evaluate visual health-related quality of life among persons aged 15–50 years old in Nampula, Mozambique. Methods Participants were assessed using a validated rapid assessment of refractive error protocol, comprised of a demographic questionnaire, a standardized ophthalmic assessment to determine refractive status and spectacle coverage, and a modified vision-related quality of life questionnaire to assess the impact of uncorrected refractive error on participants’ visual health status. Results Among the 3,453 respondents, visual impairment prevalence was 3.5% (95%, CI 2.7%–4.2%), with 65.8% of those visually impaired being 35 years of age and older. Uncorrected refractive error prevalence was 2.6% (95%, CI 2.1–3.2%), and was the primary cause of visual impairment among 64.5% of cases. The spectacle coverage for uncorrected refractive error was 0%. Presbyopia prevalence was higher, at 25.8% (95%, CI 12.0–30.5%), with only 2.2% spectacle coverage. Respondents with visual impairment demonstrated statistically significantly lower quality of life scores compared to those without visual problems ( p < 0.01). Implications for practitioners The uncorrected refractive error problem and a distinct lack of spectacle coverage for refractive error and presbyopia indicate an urgent need for the development and delivery of a comprehensive refractive error service in the Nampula region of Mozambique.
Executive Function and Behavioral Problems in Students with Visual Impairments at Mainstream and Special Schools
Authors: Heyl Vera , Hintermair Manfred 
Published: December 2018

Introduction In this study, executive function of school-aged children with visual impairments (that is, those who are blind or have low vision) is examined in the context of behavioral problems and communicative competence. Methods Teachers assessed the executive function of a sample of 226 visually impaired students from mainstream schools and schools for students who are visually impaired, using a German version of the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF-D) and a questionnaire measuring communicative competence and behavioral problems (German version of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire; SDQ-D). Results The results showed highly significant differences in all domains of executive function: the visually impaired students consistently scored more poorly compared to a normative sample of sighted children, even when visually impaired students with additional disabilities were not taken into account. A regression analysis revealed the significance of executive function for behavioral problems among students with visual impairments. Discussion The findings demonstrate that a wide range of executive function domains that are significant for socioemotional development are not sufficiently developed in many visually impaired students. This lack of development seems to be particularly true for students who attend special schools. Implications for practitioners In educational concepts for visually impaired students, a specific and early focus on competencies such as attention shifting and emotional understanding seems to be necessary, especially in the context of inclusion. Moreover, reinforcing communicative competence might also enhance the development of executive function and help to reduce behavioral problems.
The Effect of Container Shape on Prescription Drug Label Readability for Adults with Visual Impairments
Authors: Connors Elyse , Lee Helen , Curtis Amy B. , Kim Dae Shik , Freeland Amy 
Published: December 2018

Introduction Adults with vision loss often have difficulties reading prescription drug labels. An aspect of label readability that has not been well explored is the effect of container shape on the readability of the label. The research question addressed is: Does container shape affect the readability of prescription drug labels for persons with reduced visual acuity? Methods A repeated-measure, single-factor design with within-subject control was used with 23 adults with visual acuity of 20/60 or less. Individuals were recruited from southwest Michigan. Participants read 3 unique prescription drug labels on 4 differently shaped containers (flat, box, small cylinder, large cylinder) in block randomized order, for a total of 12 trials. The amount of time needed to locate and read aloud 6 pieces of label information and number of errors made in reading were measured, as well as each participant's preference in container shapes. Results A statistically significant difference was found between the mean number of seconds required to read flat container labels (flat and box shape, M = 54.62 seconds, SD = 23.8) and round containers (small and large cylinder shape, M = 64.46 seconds, SD = 36.3). No statistically significant effect of container type was found on the number of mistakes made in reading the label information, Wald χ2(3) = .71, p = 0.871. Seventy-eight percent of the participants chose the flat container as their preferred shape. Only 1 participant selected the box as his or her top choice. Discussion Containers with flat surfaces (flat and box) were easier to read, measured by speed, compared to containers with round surfaces (small and large cylinders). Although the study participants overwhelmingly preferred flat containers to the boxes, little difference was found between the two shapes in the amount of time that was needed to read labels affixed to them. Implications for practitioners Individuals with vision loss may need more time to read prescription drug labels affixed to the more typical cylindrical containers compared to flat ones.
Use of an Accessible iPad App and Supplemental Graphics to Build Mathematics Skills: Feasibility Study Results
Authors: Beal Carole R. , Rosenblum L. Penny 
Published: December 2018

Introduction The present study evaluated the feasibility of using an iPad application or “app” for algebra-readiness mathematics, with accompanying braille materials and accessible graphics, when used in authentic educational settings. Methods Twenty-nine students with visual impairments in grades 4–11 used the materials under the direction of their teachers of students with visual impairments ( N = 19). Twenty percent of the mathematics problems included graphics such as maps, line graphs, and bar graphs. Students and teachers of students with visual impairments provided feedback about the feasibility of using the app with supplemental materials, and made suggestions for additional features to improve the instructional package. Results Students completed 984 word problems and solved 80% of them correctly within three attempts. The use of some features such as hints and “worked-example” videos was low. Participants provided suggestions for improvement of the app features and accessible graphics. Discussion Students and teachers of students with visual impairments were able to use the materials successfully, and comments were generally positive. Participants’ comments and suggestions were used to revise the app and materials. Implications for practitioners The study results contribute to the growing body of knowledge about the potential value of tablet-type devices for use by visually impaired students.
The Relationship between Loneliness and Perceived Quality of Life among Older Persons with Visual Impairments
Authors: Grow Steven J. La , Towers Andy , Yeung Polly , Alpass Fiona , Stephens Christine 
Published: December 2018

Introduction This article explores the rate and degree of loneliness in community-dwelling older visually impaired people, and is the first study to investigate the unique contribution that social and emotional loneliness makes to perceived quality of life (PQOL) in this population. Methods The study constituted a secondary analysis of postal survey data from the second wave (2012) of the nationally representative New Zealand Longitudinal Study of Ageing, a longitudinal study of older New Zealanders. A total of 2,683 participants completed both the visual status screening question and all 11 loneliness items to meet the criteria for inclusion in this study. Results Those designated as being visually impaired ( n = 315) were found to be more likely to experience loneliness (53% vs. 36%) than their sighted peers ( n = 2,368). Increased loneliness among those who are visually impaired was found to be associated with decreased economic well-being, mental health, satisfaction with activities of daily living, satisfaction with life, and PQOL. Social loneliness, but not emotional loneliness, was found to make a unique contribution to the prediction of variance in the PQOL of older visually impaired people over and above the impact of other predictors. Discussion Loneliness is much more prevalent in, and occurs with greater severity among, people who are visually impaired than with those who are not. Social loneliness made a unique contribution to PQOL over and above the contribution of variables that previous research has shown are central to PQOL in this population. Implications for practitioners Loneliness is not often addressed in vision rehabilitation programs designed for older adults, yet it is apparent from these findings that rates of loneliness may be high in this population. Its effect, even at moderate levels, is detrimental to the PQOL of older people with visual impairments.
Development and Evaluation of the Walk for Health Program: A Physical Activity Intervention for Adults with Visual Impairments
Authors: Ackley-Holbrook Elizabeth , Kang Minsoo , Morgan Don W. 
Published: December 2018

Background Although the pervasive comorbidity documented in adults with visual impairments may be linked to physical inactivity, little is known regarding the extent to which mobility and health status can be improved in this population. The aim of this preliminary study was to develop and implement an adaptive, community-based walking program for adults with visual impairments and to evaluate its impact on daily step activity, cardiovascular health, body composition, and lipid function. Methods During an 8-week period, 17 adults (age = 47.3 ± 12.3 years) with visual impairments were prompted at biweekly intervals (weeks 1, 3, 5) to increase their daily step activity by 1,000 steps per day and maintain these gains during weeks 2, 4, and 6. Participants were asked to sustain walking levels achieved by week 6 during the final 2 weeks of the program. Results Following the walking intervention, participants displayed a 78% increase in daily step activity (p < .01), but no improvements in cardiovascular health, body composition, or lipid function were observed. Conclusion Daily step activity was improved after completion of the walking program, but markers of health-related fitness remained unchanged. Future studies should be conducted to quantify the volume of physical activity required to improve the health status of persons with visual impairments.
Accessibility of Hotels for People with Visual Impairments: From Research to Practice
Authors: Tutuncu Ozkan , Lieberman Lauren 
Published: December 2018

Introduction Standards are available to guide tourism facilities in providing barrier-free environments for the independence, convenience, and safety of people with disabilities. These standards can be especially beneficial to individuals who face many barriers in daily life and tourism activities, such as those with visual impairments. On the other hand, some barriers faced by individuals with visual impairments in this arena are specific and may not be improved by only these regulations. Purpose The purpose of this study was to find the main barriers in hotels and evaluate the accessibility of hotels for people with visual impairments. Methods Qualitative research methods were used to explore determinants of barriers to the accessibility of tourism facilities for people with visual impairments. Semi-structured, open-ended questions were distributed to individuals with visual impairments. Results Sixty-six participants with visual impairments shared their experiences with hotels. Themes that emerged from the data were categorized into three settings: entrance, guest rooms, and other hotel settings. People with visual impairments discussed all hotel settings with regard to signage; braille; lighting, color, and contrast; and layout. Discussion Those with visual impairments expressed needs that related specifically to their own disabilities. Their problems are clear and can be solved if hotel managers focus on their needs. Standards and checklists can be helpful to solve many problems, but they are not meaningful without real audits. The needs of people with visual impairments do not require considerable investments but rather a transformation in existing attitudes and policies. Implications for practitioners From the findings, an accessibility checklist was developed for hotel managers to address barriers for people with visual impairments.
Rehabilitation and Research Priorities in Deafblindness for the Next Decade
Authors: Wittich Walter , Jarry Jonathan , Groulx Geneviève , Southall Kenneth , Gagné Jean-Pierre 
Published: December 2018

Purpose Previous studies have guided the development of deafblindness rehabilitation by reporting on the priorities of researchers and of deafblind individuals; however, service and care providers may be able to bring a different and important perspective to shaping the development of this clinical field and its research. The present study aims to give them a voice in this process. Methods We conducted a qualitative survey in which 68 stakeholders in deaf-blind rehabilitation from 6 countries described their perceived research and rehabilitation priorities for the coming decade. Verbatim transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis through open coding, creating categories, and abstraction. Results Three categories of priorities emerged: those common to rehabilitation and research (such as assistive technology, communication services, and interdisciplinarity), those unique to rehabilitation (such as augmented service provision), and those unique to research (such as recruitment databases and measurement tools). Conclusions When viewing the findings from within the context of the existing research literature, the overlap indicated that research and rehabilitation efforts are moving in a congruent direction for researchers, service providers, and persons with deafblindness. Future efforts should focus on information exchange in order to improve evidence-based rehabilitation practice.
The Relationship between Work and Health in Persons with Usher Syndrome Type 2
Authors: Ehn Mattias , Möller Kerstin , Danermark Berth , Möller Claes 
Published: December 2018

Introduction Persons with deafblindness may have additional physical and psychological health problems. In this study we have focused on health from a work-life perspective in persons with Usher syndrome type 2 (USH2), a disorder with sensorineural hearing loss and retinitis pigmentosa. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between work and disability pension and physical and psychological health in persons with USH2. Methods Participants were recruited from the Swedish Usher database. Eighty-four persons (aged 18 to 65 years) received a health-related questionnaire and 67 (36 women and 31 men) agreed to participate. The participants formed two groups (working group, n = 34; disability pension group, n = 33). A Swedish Health on Equal Terms questionnaire comprising questions on psychological and physical health, living conditions, work activity, and social relationships was used. A chi-square test of significance was used with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results The two groups did not differ in terms of age, gender, degree of hearing loss, visual acuity, or visual field loss. The working group had statistically significant better health compared to the disability pension group in areas such as being overweight, handling problems, concentration, feeling unhappy, depressive symptoms, and feelings of worthlessness. Suicidal thoughts and attempts were significantly more common in the disability pension group. Discussion Persons with USH2 generally reported very poor physical and psychological health, with significant differences between persons who were working and those who were not. This study highlights the need for early rehabilitation, vocational training, and opportunities to access the labor market. Implications for practitioners It is important that persons with USH2 receive vocational support from an early age and that professionals in the field of rehabilitation always include work activity as a key element of interventions.