A scoping review of visual rehabilitation services for adults in Nigeria

Abstract

Visual impairment is a growing public health concern, especially with an aging population, and visual rehabilitation forms the final stage of eye care. This review assessed available evidence on rehabilitation services, barriers to access, and research gaps in Nigeria. A literature search was conducted across major databases and gray sources between July and November 2024, using Arksey and O’Malley’s and Tricco et al.’s frameworks, with findings reported via PRISMA for Scoping Reviews. From 1432 studies, only 14 met inclusion criteria. Half were hospital-based, while others were conducted in communities, schools, and organizations. Rehabilitation centers were documented in just 15 states. Major barriers included cost, stigma, and poor awareness. Overall, documentation of visual rehabilitation services in Nigeria was inadequate. Stakeholders should integrate rehabilitation into eye care policies and standardize training and referral systems to ensure timely access to services.