Optimism and illness acceptance linked to better adherence in glaucoma patients

Patients who are more optimistic and accepting of their illness are more likely to follow their glaucoma treatment regimen, highlighting the importance of psychological well-being in managing glaucoma, according to a study.

Sociodemographic factors were also found to significantly influence adherence to glaucoma therapy.

The study, which included 190 adults treated for glaucoma, measured adherence using the Adherence to Refills and Medications Scale (ARMS), along with psychological assessments like the Acceptance of Illness Scale (AIS) and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS).

Overall, 58.9% of patients had low treatment adherence, with better adherence seen in educated females aged 68 or under, living in urban areas.

Regression analysis showed that dispositional optimism and illness acceptance were key factors in improving adherence. Patients with higher levels of optimism and illness acceptance had significantly better adherence.

Reference
Malewicz K, Pender A, Chabowski M, et al. Impact of Sociodemographic and Psychological Factors on Adherence to Glaucoma Treatment – A Cross-Sectional Study. Clin Ophthalmol. 2024;18:2503-2520. doi: 10.2147/OPTH.S475812. PMID: 39246554; PMCID: PMC11380480.