Summary of recommendations for clinicians and policy-makers

The CTFPHC will continue to carefully monitor the scientific developments in the prevention of impaired vision and related functional limitations in adults 65 years and over.

This recommendation applies to community dwelling adults aged 65 years and over who are not already under the care of a specialist ophthalmologist. It does not apply to those known to have a condition predisposed to vision impairment such as glaucoma or diabetes; who live in full-time residential care; or, who have a diagnosis of dementia.

The CTFPHC based the recommendations on the overall balance between the possible benefits and harms of preventive screening, weighing the potential benefits of screening against any associated harms.

Recommendations

• For community-dwelling adults aged 65 years and over we recommend against screening for impaired vision in primary care settings
  (Weak recommendation, low quality evidence).