Designing an Internet-based intervention for carers and adults with acquired visual loss

Research Group

Vision and Hearing Sciences Research Group

Proposed supervisory team

Prof Peter Allen

Dr Eldre Beukes

Prof Gerhard Andersson (External)

Theme

Vision impairment

Summary of the research project

An acquired vision impairment (VI) is associated with anxiety, depression, social isolation, and reduced quality of life. As people with VI rely heavily on caregivers, due to loss of independence, caregivers may also find the increased burden placed on them difficult. There are resources, strategies and techniques available to aid independence, wellbeing and reduce the associated stress. These are not always provided due to difficulty accessing some face-to-face support by those with a VI. Providing a platform with such resources online may increase the help available to both the VI and their carers. An Internet-based intervention may provide more accessible support.

Recent research involving the VI and their caregivers has identified what support tools the VI and their carers would like in such an Internet-based intervention. This project will firstly design the internet intervention creatively, using media and digital resources. The design will involve adaptations to ensure the materials are accessible to those with a VI. Next a series of evaluations will be undertaken to determine the acceptability and evaluate efficacy of the intervention to improve activity participation and wellbeing for those with VI and their carers. The project will involve development of skills in intervention design, liaising with VI participant involvement groups. The evaluation will involve both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. The software and facilities required for the project are available. Participants will be recruited via social media and from VI charities.

Where you'll study

Cambridge

Funding

This project is self-funded.

Details of studentships for which funding is available are selected by a competitive process and are advertised on our jobs website as they become available.

Next steps

If you wish to be considered for this project, you will need to apply for our Optometry and Vision Sciences PhD. In the section of the application form entitled 'Outline research proposal', please quote the above title and include a research proposal.