A REVIEW OF PREVIOUS RESEARCH ON THE MARITAL AND FAMILY SITUATION OF OLDER ADULTS WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENT

Abstract

Visual impairment in later life presents numerous challenges that go beyond the physical dimension and significantly affect the emotional, social, and family functioning of older adults. This review paper analyzes findings from relevant studies addressing the relationship between visual impairment and the quality of marital and family relationships. Special attention is given to the role of the partner as a source of support, the presence of loneliness, and the coping strategies that older individuals develop in order to maintain the stability of marital and family relationships while living with visual impairment. Research indicates that vision loss in old age changes the dynamics of marital and family relationships, where the quality of interpersonal bonds, a sense of personal involvement, and the availability of social support become key to preserving emotional stability and life satisfaction. The loss of vision often requires a redistribution of family roles and can create additional emotional and practical burdens for both the person with the impairment and their partner or family members. Marital and family relationships can thus serve as a source of strength and security, but also of stress if adequate support and mutual understanding are lacking. It is concluded that support for visually impaired older adults should include emotional and family-related aspects of daily life, with the goal of strengthening partner relationships, family inclusion, and a sense of belonging.