PLANNING A HEALTH-EDUCATION PROGRAM FOR THE ELDERLY VISUALLY-IMPAIREDPERSON - A FOCUS GROUP-STUDY

Focus group methodology was used with the aim of learning how persons with the diagnosis of age-related macular degeneration perceived and d escribed their disease, and how the disease had changed their activiti es of daily living (ADL). This information is seen as critical in desi gning a health education programme. The focus group participants descr ibed problems in performing ADL. Factors contributing to the ADL probl ems were categorized as functional limitations in, and feelings about performing, ADL. The participants used a number of ADL strategies to a dapt to new situations. The participants expressed uncertainty regardi ng whether senile macular degeneration, age-related macular degenerati on and 'yellow spot' were the same disease. They expressed a desire to know more about the disease and its consequences. They particularly r equested time for receiving information, and the opportunity to discus s it, as in the focus groups. This target group need a health educatio n programme based on their own perceptions. The main issues in such a programme should be to convey information, teach ADL strategies, provi de support and foster problem-solving.