Undetected visual impairment

Good eyesight is vital for wellbeing, health, and everyday independence. Visual impairment creates significant challenges for people, affecting both their wellbeing and overall health. When eyesight deteriorates, the risk of falling increases. Elderly with reduced vision often remain at home, become isolated, and may need support in their daily lives. This is why it is important to take timely measures.

It is well known that some older people do not seek help for their vision problems. When eyesight declines gradually over a long period, the change often goes unnoticed until the impairment has become severe. This is unfortunate, as in some cases the loss of vision can be corrected with a pair of glasses. Others may have an eye condition for which appropriate treatment can slow further deterioration.

As part of the research and innovation project Undetected visual impairment, a cross-disciplinary and cross-border collaboration took place across the Öresund region to identify people over the age of 75 with impaired vision who do not seek examination or treatment themselves. The aim was to help more people maintain good eyesight – even when they are older.

The project resulted in four recommendations for the early identification of visual impairment:

1. Targeted information on eye health
2. Early detection and involvement of specialists
3. Straightforward examinations and the use of technology
4. Improved collaboration and clearly defined roles

The project concluded at the end of November 2025. More insights and recommendations that emerged from the project are available in the final report in Swedish, found among the links below.

Several research findings will be published only after the project has ended. These will be available on the project’s Danish website, which is also linked below.