Table 4.

 Seven practical steps for ophthalmologists to integrate into practice

(1) Understand the meaning patients ascribe to their diagnosis

(2) Recognise and acknowledge the manifestations of an unresolved identity (concealing RP, avoiding adaptive change)

(3) Normalise any personal identity conflict patients express by (anonymously) sharing similar conflicts experienced by other patients, for example

(4) Help patients weigh the advantages and disadvantages of behaviour and lifestyle changes

(5) Tailor their dialogue and recommendations to patients’ functional and psychological readiness for change

(6) Acknowledge patients’ progress

(7) Provide guidance and supportive resources in anticipation of this suffering in order to facilitate smooth and adaptive transitions.