Abstract
Objectives:
The study aims to promote quality of life by changing the knowledge, attitude, and practices of the patient. The objective of this is to ascertain sociodemographic data of the and to understand the prevalent practices adopted by the study population for health preservation and promotion. The study also helps provide counseling on improving the quality of eye care through day-to-day activities.
Material and Methods:
This prospective, observational, questionnaire-based study included all patients attending the Ophthalmology OPD (outpatient department) in a tertiary care hospital in southern Assam between February 1, 2024, and July 31, 2024. It encompassed all patients and attendants above 12 years of age in the waiting area of the refraction room. Subjects who were very sick or non-consenting (in the case of minors, their guardians) were excluded. A pre-tested questionnaire focusing on sociodemographic, symptoms, diet, screen exposure, addictions, physical activity and overall happiness was given to the subjects; their responses were assessed, and they were followed up monthly for 3 months while offering personalized counseling tailored according to the responses filled in, in a Socratic manner, and non-pharmacological health-promoting measures were offered in addition to the treatment prescribed and followed up monthly for 3 months.
Results:
A total of 719 subjects meeting the above criteria were selected, and baseline data were collected. Out of this population, 660 opted for the counseling. The outcome showed significant improvement in their symptoms as well as happiness score on the Likert scale as compared to the control group.
Conclusion:
Vartalap demonstrated that counseling-based lifestyle modification significantly improves ocular comfort and quality of life, promoting holistic, patient-centered care beyond pharmacological treatment in ophthalmology practice.