Posted on
13 May 2026
Read time
1 minute
This study, supported by ACHA Professor Adam Gordon, reviewed existing research to understand how eyesight is checked in older adults who attend hospital after a fall. Falls are common in later life, and poor vision almost doubles the risk of falling. National guidelines recommend assessing vision after a fall, but it is not always done in practice.
The researchers examined 27 studies from 13 countries, published between 1978 and 2024. They found that approaches to checking vision varied widely. Most assessments involved asking simple questions (such as when the last eye test was) and checking distance vision using eye charts. However, there was no consistent or standardised way of screening vision, and important aspects like depth perception and contrast sensitivity were often missed. Many people were found to have correctable vision problems, such as needing new glasses or cataract treatment, but referral pathways were inconsistent.
Overall, the authors conclude that clearer, standardised vision screening pathways are needed in hospitals to help prevent future falls.
