Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. This chronic disease gradually damages the optic nerve, and if not detected and treated in time, it can severely impact vision. However, beyond its physical consequences, glaucoma also has a profound effect on the quality of life of those who suffer from it, particularly on an emotional and social level.
At Oftalis – Institute of Ophthalmology at Clínica Girona, we recognize this reality. That’s why we collaborated on a study conducted by Laura Rangel, psychologist, as part of her final degree project in psychology, with the support of Dr. Cristina Pujadas, an ophthalmologist specializing in medical and surgical glaucoma. This study examines how glaucoma affects our patients’ quality of life, focusing on psychological and social aspects that are often overlooked during treatment.
How Does Glaucoma Affect Daily Life?
As glaucoma progresses, loss of visual field makes essential activities such as reading, walking safely, or driving increasingly difficult. These limitations often lead to:
✅ Feelings of insecurity and fear when moving around.
✅ Dependence on others for daily tasks.
✅ Increased anxiety and emotional stress.
✅ Social isolation and reduced participation in activities.
A study conducted at Oftalis with 55 glaucoma patients revealed that those in advanced stages of the disease faced greater difficulties in maintaining their independence. Additionally, many patients reported feeling misunderstood by their social circles, further exacerbating feelings of isolation.
The Emotional and Social Impact of Glaucoma
A glaucoma diagnosis not only affects vision—it can also trigger emotional distress, fear of blindness, and lifestyle changes. In fact, up to 60% of glaucoma patients may experience symptoms of anxiety and depression (Alnasser et al., 2021).
If these emotions are not properly managed, they can lead to a lack of motivation to follow treatment, worsening the patient’s overall quality of life and accelerating vision loss.
The Importance of a Holistic Approach
At Oftalis, we believe in comprehensive glaucoma care. Controlling intraocular pressure is crucial, but addressing the patient’s emotional and social well-being is just as important.
To improve the quality of life for those living with glaucoma, it is essential to:
🔹 Ensure early detection, especially for individuals with a family history.
🔹 Provide clear and accessible information to help patients understand their condition.
🔹 Offer psychological support to help manage the emotional impact of the diagnosis.
🔹 Promote social support, creating spaces where patients feel understood and supported.
Conclusion
This study, conducted by Laura Rangel with the support of Dr. Cristina Pujadas, highlights the urgent need for a multidisciplinary approach to glaucoma care.
By integrating psychological and social support into glaucoma treatment, we can significantly improve patient well-being and increase adherence to medical therapies.
Thanks to the participation of our patients in this project, we continue working towards providing more comprehensive, human-centered, and tailored care to meet the real needs of every individual.
References
🔗 Alnasser, Y. et al. (2021). Mental Health of Patients with Glaucoma: A Systematic Review. PubMed. Link
🔗 American Academy of Ophthalmology. (n.d.). Glaucoma. Link
🔗 Rees, G., Tee, H. W., Marella, M., Fenwick, E., Dirani, M., & Lamoureux, E. L. (2020). Vision-specific distress and depressive symptoms in patients with glaucoma. American Journal of Ophthalmology, 139(5), 785-792.