Impact of Visual Impairment on Functional Independence and Mental Health Among the Elderly in Imo State

Visual impairment in older adults is closely linked to reduced functional independence, social isolation, depression, and cognitive decline. Despite the growing elderly population in Nigeria, the functional and psychological consequences of visual impairment in this group remain understudied in the South East zone. This study examines the impact of visual impairment on functional independence and mental health among elderly individuals in Imo State. A cross-sectional comparative design will be used, recruiting 300 adults aged 60 years and above from primary healthcare centers and elderly day centers in Owerri and Orlu. Visual function will be assessed using best-corrected visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and the NEI-VFQ-25. Functional independence will be measured using the Barthel Index, and mental health status assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15) and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Multiple regression analysis will examine associations between visual impairment severity and functional and psychological outcomes. The study anticipates a significant negative association between visual impairment and both functional independence and mental health scores. Findings will be submitted to the Imo State Ministry of Health and Social Development to advocate for integrated vision rehabilitation and elderly mental health services. This research contributes to the geriatric optometry evidence base in Nigeria's South East zone and reinforces the biopsychosocial dimensions of ocular care for older adults. Keywords: visual impairment, elderly, functional independence, mental health, Imo State