Depression and Self-Management Training for Patients With Macular Degeneration
Research literature documents evidence of high levels of comorbidity between physical illness and depression in later life. A randomized intervention study, conducted by the Shiley Eye Center at the University of California, San Diego, has tested the effectiveness of self-management training on mood and function for patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Patients participated in a 12-hour group program consisting of health education and enhancement of problem-solving skills. At the conclusion of the program, participants reported significantly less emotional distress, better function, and increased self-efficacy as compared with control subjects.
A six-month follow-up assessment, reported in the January 2005 issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, found that these improvements were sustained. In addition, the self-management group had significantly less clinical depression than the control group. What this indicates: a relatively simple program can improve the quality of life of AMD patients, even as the search continues for effective treatment of the disease.
NEW Online Public Health Course!Lighthouse International is proud to announce the launch of a new online class, "Keeping your Communities Healthy: Your Expanding Role in Disease Prevention" aimed at helping you energize your practice and be a leader in preventing vision loss in your community. |