Realizing life goals: Lived experience of young and middle-age adults with adult-onset vision impairment in Nigeria

Abstract

This study explored the life goals implications of adult-onset vision impairment among young and middle-aged adults living in Nigeria. Using a qualitative descriptive design approach, Eight young and middle-aged adults with adult-onset vision impairment were recruited for the study. Data were gathered using semi-structured individual interviews which focused on discussing life goals (i.e., educational, employment, and social goals) and barriers to goals achievement. Three overlapping themes that reflect participants’ accounts were identified, namely, (1) relationship-related challenges, (2) crumbled education and employment pursuits, and (3) strategies to achieve goals and feeling hopeful. Findings indicate that adult-onset vision impairment can interfere with educational, employment, and relationship goals of young and middle-aged adults living in Nigeria. This study suggests that vision rehabilitation intervention can be optimized by incorporating targeted supports and interventions around achieving an individual’s life goals in the rehabilitative management plan.