Dr Simon Skalicky FRANZCO Glaucoma Subspecialist Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital Clinical Senior Lecturer, University of Melbourne Clinical Senior Lecturer, University of Sydney

  A holistic reflection of an individual’s wellbeing.  One’s ability to pursue life to maximal fulfillment.  It is heavily influenced by vision. What is quality of life (QoL)?

 QoL in glaucoma: natural history Glaucoma progress QoL Disease onset

  Questionnaires  Focus on visual function/ability How do we measure QoL in glaucoma?

 What determines QoL in glaucoma?  QoL in glaucoma is determined by progressive peripheral visual loss  However, multiple other factors influence QoL in glaucoma patients

  Depression…….. Skalicky SE et al, J Glaucoma 2008; 17:  Dry eye….. Skalicky SE et al, Amer J Ophthalmol ; 2012; 153: 1-9  Cataract………………….… Skalicky SE et al – in submission  Macular Degeneration…….. Skalicky SE et al – for submission What other factors influence QoL in glaucoma?

 QoL in glaucoma: treated disease Time QoL Disease onset Intervention to improve QoL

 How else do we measure QoL?  Questionnaires have problems  Simulations of real-life situations overcomes some of those problems

  QoL research in glaucoma provides important insights into patient’s life and function.  QoL research aids clinicians in counseling and educating patients and choosing treatments.  QoL research will lead to tangible benefits for patients’ lives. Conclusions