Prevalence and Factors Associated with Suicidal Ideation Among Older People with Visual Impairments Attending an Eye Center During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Purpose

To evaluate the prevalence of suicidal ideation and associated factors among older people with visual impairments attending an eye center during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Patients and Methods

A total of 314 older people aged 60 and above with visual impairments who attended an eye center were included in this study. This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study conducted from February to July, 2022. Data were collected in person. Suicidal ideation was measured using the Columbia–Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to explore associations between related factors and suicidal ideation.

Results

Of 314 older people with visual impairments, the prevalence of suicidal ideation was 32.5%. Suicidal ideation was independently associated with diabetic retinopathy (adjusted odds ratio (AOR)=2.4, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.0–5.8; p=0.038) and depression (AOR=6.3, 95% CI: 3.5–11.2; p<0.001).

Conclusion

This study found a relatively high prevalence of suicidal ideation among older people with visual impairments. There was also a significant association between depression and suicidal ideation among these individuals. Visual impairments can lead to negative émotions. This underscores the importance of addressing the mental health needs of older individuals with visual impairments, including suicide prevention efforts tailored to their needs. Ophthalmologists should be equipped with the skills necessary to identify the early signs of suicidal ideation and refer patients to mental healthcare specialists for appropriate treatment.

Keywords:

• older people
• visual impairment
• suicidal ideation
• depression
• COVID-19

Data Sharing Statement

Data is available upon request to the corresponding author.

Ethics Approval

This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) for Human Research at the Faculty of Medicine of Chulalongkorn University (COA No.1638/2021). In addition to protecting participant identities and maintaining confidentiality, written informed consent was obtained from all participants before the interview. This study was performed in accordance with the principles stated in the Declaration of Helsinki.

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to acknowledge the 100th Anniversary Chulalongkorn University Fund for Doctoral Scholarship and the 90th Anniversary Chulalongkorn University Fund (Ratchadapiseksomphot Endowment Fund) for supporting this study. I am also grateful to Ms. Reberta Adele Steer Huthart for her kind support during this study.

Disclosure

The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.