Theory Is Essential in Promoting the Distinct Value of Occupational Therapy in Rehabilitation of Adults With Low Vision: A Systematic Review

Abstract Importance: Evidence for occupational therapy interventions should be grounded in theory to support practitioners’ role in the rehabilitation of adults with low vision. Objective: To analyze the content of publications on interventions for adults with low vision to determine theories proposed or used to guide interventions and to categorize their level of evidence. Data Sources: CINAHL, Scopus, PubMed, and Embase. Method: A quantitative summative content analysis of articles published from 1984 through 2021. Results: Fourteen articles provided a theoretical rationale for occupational therapy interventions for adults with low vision. Nine provided evidence for interventions supported by theory, and 3 suggested theories to support interventions. Eleven were found in peer-reviewed publications; 10 were in occupational therapy publications. Of the 14, 50% were categorized at the lowest level of evidence. Conclusions and Relevance: Few high-level studies on occupational therapy interventions for adults with low vision exist that provide a rationale for treatment based on theory. Application of theories provides clinical reasoning that distinguishes occupational therapy interventions from those of other professions serving adults with low vision. If interventions are not grounded in theory, the occupational therapy profession risks losing its distinction from other similar professions in low vision rehabilitation. Plain-Language Summary: This is the first content analysis of theories recommended and used to guide occupational therapy interventions for adults with low vision. This systematic review highlights occupational therapy’s distinct value over other professions but also points to a dangerous gap in the literature that threatens practitioners’ role in the rehabilitation of adults with low vision.