Double Jeopardy: The Effects of Comorbid Conditions among Older People with Vision Loss

This retrospective study used national survey data to examine multiple effects of nine comorbid conditions—breathing problems, depression risk, diabetes, heart problems, hearing impairment, hypertension, joint problems, low back pain, and stroke—on physical functioning, participation, and health status among older adults with visual impairments. Bivariate and multivariate procedures were used to compare older adults who had neither visual impairment nor these conditions with adults of similar age who had one of the nine conditions only, visual impairment only, or both visual impairment and the condition. Findings indicate that older adults with visual impairment frequently experience comorbid conditions, and that these conditions are associated with difficulties in walking and climbing steps, shopping, and socializing, and with significantly more self-reports of declining health. Results suggest that interventions by health care and mental health providers, as well as enhanced rehabilitation services, have the potential to reduce or prevent the deleterious effects of comorbid conditions.