Abstract
Introduction: End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is frequently treated with emphasis on systemic stability, but difficulties related to vision, continued to be disregarded even though they play an important role in daily functioning and independence. Visual impairments are an additional psychosocial and physical burden that comes along for ESRD, yet they are often not provided for in nephrology care.
Objectives: This study explores the hidden burden of visual impairment among ESRD patients in Jordan and identifies gaps in current clinical support systems.
Patients and Methods: A qualitative study design was adopted through semi structured interviews with ESRD patients in private ophthalmology clinics in Amman. Purposeful sampling assured variation on age, gender and health backgrounds. Participants gave free accounts of their visual experiences. Interviews were audio recorded with informed consent and transcribed verbatim, using inductive analysis. A local institutional review board had been obtained in respect of its ethical approval.
Results: Patients described persistent challenges with blurry vision, light sensitivity, and unreliable sight, particularly in low-light conditions. While eyeglasses and assistive tools such as audiobooks or screen readers provided partial support, they rarely restored full independence. Barriers to routine eye care included dialysis fatigue and logistical constraints. Family support often filled functional gaps but simultaneously reinforced dependency. A consistent theme was the absence of coordination between nephrology and ophthalmology; vision concerns were seldom raised during renal care visits, and patients perceived little professional interest in their visual health.
Conclusion: The quality of life of ESRD patients significantly affects visual impairment in that this activity affects independence, mobility and psychosocial changes. Improved and interdisciplinary collaboration between nephrology and ophthalmology is needed to guarantee a holistic and patient-centered care.