Researchers from the University of Sydney followed 3,654 study participants for 13 years.
They found that noncorrectable visual impairment was associated with a 35 per cent increased risk of mortality.
The researchers suggest that walking difficulties may make people with visual impairments less likely to use health services, putting them at greater risk. This group may also have difficulties exercising regularly and eating healthily, the researchers said.
Previous data may have underestimated the degree to which visual impairment affects mortality risk, they said.
