Page 26

1. Introduction

To Gravitas

To research objectives, methods and stages

To aims of the interview

Confidentiality, use of audio tape

Any participant questions?

2. Background

Introduction to participant

Experience in the costs of blindness

3. Defining the Costs of Blindness

• Previous research concludes that there are multiple and diverse costs of blindness.
• We understand costs of blindness to include all costs above and beyond that which would be encountered if a person did not have vision impairment.
• Costs of blindness may therefore be considered as extra costs incurred because of blindness or vision impairment.
• Costs may include direct, non-optional financial costs, time costs, qualitative 'quality of life' costs, opportunity costs (e.g. the cost of opportunities foregone or lost because of the sight impairment), and societal costs - all goods, services, and benefits provided in response to blindness, including government and organisational expenditure, subsides, concessions, equipment and services.

Comments on these definitions and categorisations?

Would you revise or add to them in any way?

• Previous research also indicates that the costs of blindness are very individual and are influenced by many factors.

In your opinion, what factors influence what, when and how costs are incurred?

For each factor identified, PROBE the nature/direction of influence and outcome/impacts.

If necessary PROBE: onset of disease; age and life stage; gender; ethnicity; location.

Page 27

4. Costs of Blindness

What would you consider to be the most significant costs of blindness for individuals?

For each identified PROBE:

• what types of costs are incurred - financial, time, opportunity.
• when, where, how do costs occur
• examples from own experience?

EXPLORE:

• Medical and Sensory Aid Equipment and Services
• Accommodation/living decisions
• Day to day activities around the home
• Parenting
• Transport and mobility
• Schooling/Education
• Employment
• Sport, recreation and leisure activities
• Social/Emotional costs
• Involvement in community, cultural and religious activities
• Communication
• Previous research has also identified direct costs associated with daily living as a major cost area. For each (communication, accommodation, home living, home help, transport, shopping, leisure activities)

PROBE: what types of costs are incurred?

when, where, how do costs occur

examples from own experience?

• Social costs related to blindness have also been discussed in previous research. These may not necessarily have a direct financial cost. Are you aware of any "costs" in this area? (e.g. socialisation, social activities, relationships, relationship breakdown, impact on families)

PROBE What is the nature of these costs?

What impact do these costs have?

• Any further comments

Thank and close

Return to the Contents Page