Retrospective Evaluation of Reasons for Ophthalmology Outpatient Visits and Diagnostic Distribution in Geriatric Patients

Abstract

Objectives: Older adults are particularly vulnerable to ocular diseases that impair vision, quality of life, and functional independence. Understanding ophthalmology outpatient visit patterns in this population is essential for planning age-sensitive eye care services. This study aimed to analyze the primary reasons for ophthalmology outpatient visits among older adults in Turkey. Materials and Methods: Medical records of patients aged ≥65 years attending an outpatient ophthalmology clinic between January and December 2024 were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic characteristics, presenting visual acuity, and primary clinical diagnoses were recorded and descriptively analyzed using predefined diagnostic categories. Results: Results: Patients aged ≥65 years accounted for 17.5% of all ophthalmology outpatient visits. Ocular surface diseases were the most common diagnostic category, followed by refractive errors and lens- and anterior segment–related conditions. The most frequent diagnoses were refractive errors, dry eye disease, and blepharitis. Most patients were aged 65–74 years, with a higher proportion of females. Visual impairment increased progressively with age. Conclusion: Ophthalmology outpatient visits among older adults are largely driven by common, potentially preventable or manageable conditions. Frequent ocular surface disorders, such as dry eye disease and blepharitis, may be effectively managed at the primary care level with appropriate referral pathways. Strengthening early identification and first-line management may reduce unnecessary specialist visits and help preserve visual function, supporting the planning and optimization of geriatric eye care services within a public health framework in Turkey.