Clearing the blur
Acquired brain injury (ABI) can have major consequences for our vision. Sometimes it involves very specific problems, such as the loss of part of the visual field. But many people also experience so-called nonspecific visual complaints, such as blurred vision, being blinded by bright light, need for more light, or difficulty adapting to lighter and/or darker environments. The exact cause of these complaints is often unclear, but they do have a significant impact on daily functioning.The aim of this study was to gain a better understanding of such complaints and to improve the assessment of visual problems after ABI. It was investigated how often specific and nonspecific complaints occur in people who were referred for neurovisual rehabilitation, and how these complaints are related to visual and visuoperceptual impairments. New diagnostic methods were developed, including a questionnaire to elicit visual complaints and a digital test battery to screen for visuoperceptual impairments. In addition, a care pathway was developed within Royal Dutch Visio for people with visual complaints following ABI.The results of the study show that the majority of people with ABI referred for neurovisual rehabilitation experience visual complaints that affect their daily functioning. Although nonspecific complaints also occur in people without ABI, they are experienced much more frequently in people with ABI. People with ABI are also more likely to experience multiple complaints simultaneously. In particular, blurred vision (41%) and light sensitivity (37%) are frequently reported. These complaints could not be sufficiently explained by reduced visual or visuoperceptual functions.This dissertation emphasizes that healthcare professionals should be alert to nonspecific visual complaints, but should be cautious in attributing them to visual or visuoperceptual impairments. Timely recognition and prompt referral to specialized centers (such as Royal Dutch Visio and Bartiméus) can help people with ABI receive the right support.