Self-management: The ability to use eyedrops preventing visual impairment for people with Parkinson disease

Abstract

Purpose During this session the need for more research and understanding visual functioning and the roll of the tear film will be explored. Dry eyes are still often considered an “old age ailment” that onehas to learn to live with. This while particular younger are more likely to suffer from painful dry eyes, as the cornea is still very sensitive. The symptoms of dry eye in general, and for older adults, are complex and it is not always clear exactly how they arise (Vehof et al., 2020). Moreover, severe dry eye symptoms can be triggered by medication use, especially used by the people with Parkinson Disease (PD) and due to the combination with reduce or inability to blink fully. Born's research shows that 82% of participants with PD reported one or more eye problems, with 56% specifically reporting “dry eye eyes” (Borm et al., 2020). Misunderstood complaints of pain and reduced vision not only have an emotional burden, but can also lead to the development ofvarious symptoms such as anxiety, depression and sleep disorders (Zheng et al., 2017; Dana et al., 2020). The main causes of DED is the disruption of tear film homeostasis. Disturbed homeostasis can lead to damage to the eye surface, the development of pain sensations and an inflammatory response. Causing damage at the cornea and reduces vision enormously. Treatment of dry eyes are primarily with the use of artificial tears. The useof eyedrops asks for motor skills as well for cognitive skill of remembering to drop regularly. Due to the fact that people with PD are less likely to report pain at start or the feeling of dry eye, education is needed for the people with PD and their carers as the (eye) care professionals around them. The investigation's acronym in Dutch is Druppel means Drop: representing, D: Dropping at the right time and in the right way; R Regular preventive dripping to prevent dry eyes in people with Parkinson's disease; U Comprehensive knowledge about dry eyes and the negative impact on quality of life; P Problem recognition of the consequences of dry eyes and options for preventive action: P Appropriate tools for eye dripping to increase self-reliance;.E Sharing experience expertise on preventing and living as optimally as possible with dry eyes; L Discussing lifestyle advice to reduce dry eye symptoms. This all to prevent damage of the cornea causing diminished visual acuity. Methods Literature study, Patient journey investigation, interviews and patient experience lab is used to understand the visual complaints: Patients experience lab, for the use of the existing tool enhancing the use of eyedrops. The possibility of self-management using additional help and awareness amongst the care professionals. Results and Discussion the outcome of this investigation will be a tool for professionals as for people with PD and their cares, to find the right information about the use of the drops. The take home message of this session will be on more awareness of the complexity of good vision and visual functioning and the tear film. The need of attention towards eye care and the understanding of the problems arising when using eye drops. Not only for people with PD. But also for all people suffering of dry eye and the skills needed to be able to use eyedrops. All for preventing visual impairment and raise the quality of life, especially of people with Parkinson's disease.