Impact of COVID-19 on Depressive Symptoms Among Patients with Low Vision and Blindness.

Background: Disability is globally recognized as a key cause of depression. Likewise, the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased the vulnerability of patients with low vision to health and health-related issues, especially mental health. This study aimed to examine the association between the impact of COVID-19 and depressive symptoms in patients with low vision and blindness.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between February and July 2022 and involved face-to-face interviews. Patients with low vision and blindness diagnosed with depression were excluded. The following items were included in the questionnaire: sociodemographic information, Multi-Dimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), the impact of COVID-19, and The Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression (CES-D). Hierarchical linear regression analysis was used to examine the association between the impact of COVID-19 and depression.

Results: The prevalence of depression among patients with low vision and blindness was 43.0%. Three factors were associated with depressive symptoms: compliance with COVID-19 prevention strategies (β = 0.16, p<0.01), anxiety during COVID-19 (β = 0.24, p<0.001), and social support (β = -0.16, p<0.01).

Conclusion: The findings indicated that COVID-19 significantly increased depressive symptoms among patients with low vision and blindness. The psychological effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have been considered critical and emergent public health issues. Stakeholders, particularly public health organizations, need to urgently implement preventive and protective measures to help patients with physical and mental disabilities.