A novel collaboration: Multifocal RGPs and low vision aids increase quality of life in visually impaired

OBJECTIVESBy presenting 2 cases, this study aimed to discuss the utility of multifocal rigid gas permeable contact lenses in the low vision patient population, and their ability to decrease reliance on low vision aids and to increase quality of life. METHODSA retrospective case series of 2 patients receiving care from two specialty practice locations was performed. Both patients were visually impaired presbyopic myopes, and sought care from both contact lens and low vision specialties in order to improve visual function and enhance their ability to perform activities of daily living. They were each fit with multifocal gas permeable contact lenses to be used in conjunction with low vision devices. The Visual Functioning Questionnaire - 25 was administered to both patients in order to quantify improvement to quality of life with the new contact lenses. RESULTSBoth patients were successfully fit with multifocal gas permeable contact lenses and reported decreased reliance on low vision aids as well as significant improvement in quality of life when wearing the contact lenses. CONCLUSIONThe use of multifocal rigid gas permeable contact lenses in the low vision patient population may be an effective tool to make visually impaired patients, particularly presbyopic degenerative myopes, less reliant on low vision aids, thereby improving their quality of life.