What should be reported as a priority during an eye assessment for an older adult client?

Hemianopia, which refers to the loss of half of the visual field in one or both eyes, is a significant finding during an eye assessment for an older adult client. This condition can severely impact an individual’s ability to navigate their environment safely, increasing the risk of falls and accidents.

In older adults, the presence of hemianopia can indicate underlying neurological conditions such as stroke or brain injury, making it critical for healthcare providers to identify and address these issues promptly. This visual impairment limits the patient's awareness of their surroundings and may necessitate immediate intervention or a referral for further evaluation, highlighting its priority in assessment.

While the other conditions listed may also be important to monitor, they do not present the same immediate risks or potential for severe impact as hemianopia. Decreased near vision is common in aging but usually does not pose an immediate danger. Increased sensitivity to glare and conjunctivitis, while uncomfortable or bothersome, do not generally require the same level of urgent clinical action. Therefore, recognizing hemianopia during an eye assessment is crucial for ensuring the older adult receives appropriate care and support.