Function, Frailty, and Futility in Eyecare for Older Adults

Over the next forty years in the United States, there will be an unprecedented increase in the older adult population. By 2060, 98 million adults are expected to be 65 or older and will make up approximately 25% of the population. Any decline in visual function can severely impact an elderly person's quality of life. With a decline in physiological reserves, old and frail patients are more likely to have complications or poor outcomes with eye surgeries and treatments. They may also have difficulties adhering to treatment regimens because of cognitive impairment, physical disabilities, or other comorbidities. Some eye conditions in the elderly can result in significant visual impairment or blindness if not properly managed; and severe vision loss can lead to accidents, falls, depression, or overall decline in health, increasing the risk of mortality. This book examines the three critical concepts in geriatric ophthalmology: function, frailty, and futility. This book will be among a limited number of published books on geriatric ophthalmology. The major difference between this book and prior publications is that this book emphasizes and centers on a comprehensive and balanced view of the patient's overall health status, functional abilities, and life expectancy, instead of focusing on the eye diseases alone. This book will educate healthcare providers on the importance to treat each elderly patient as an individual taking into account their overall health, lifestyle, and treatment goals and not to generalize and make assumptions based on age alone.