Visual complaints in people with Parkinson's disease

This dissertation explored visual complaints in people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Visual complaints are common and can appear in the early stages of the disease. These complaints, such as blurred vision, light sensitivity, and visual hallucinations, can significantly reduce quality of life, especially as the disease progresses. Therefore, early identification and management of these complaints in clinical care are crucial.

The development and validation of the Screening Visual Complaints (SVCq) questionnaire provide healthcare professionals with a valuable tool to identify visual complaints in people with PD. The SVCq aids in the decision to refer patients to specialized care or neurovisual rehabilitation. To ensure efficient and cost-effective neurovisual rehabilitation, a "stepped care" approach is recommended. This approach starts with addressing easily treatable ophthalmolocial conditions, followed by a targeted assessment of a small set of visual and visuoperceptual functions. Tailored interventions are then applied. If these interventions are insufficient, further assessments and treatments can be considered.

This dissertation has contributed to a better understanding of visual complaints in people with Parkinson’s disease and their impact on daily life. It also offers practical recommendations to improve current care and neurovisual rehabilitation for these complaints, aiming to enhance the quality of life for people living with Parkinson's.