Simple steps to preserve our vision

One hundred people go blind everyday in the UK. World sight day, 13 October, is a reminder of the importance of good eye care.

We are an aging population, so inevitably the number of people developing sight loss due to eye conditions associated with age is increasing. But by taking a few simple steps we can all take some responsibility for preserving our own vision.

Your vision is precious, if you notice a change in your sight it’s important that you have it checked out by a qualified optometrist or your GP. It’s also hugely important to attend for regular eye health check-ups regardless of whether or not you notice any changes, preferably annually but at least every two years.

Changes in sight may be nothing to worry about and frequently, they are easy to address. Your optometrist or your GP will discuss any change in vision with you and if necessary will refer you to an eye specialist for further investigation.

An up-to-date spectacle prescription is strongly recommended. Spectacles need not be  expensive, and  eye examinations and affordable glasses are readily available.

Elderly people in nursing homes in particular should be encouraged to attend for regular eyesight checks. If someone is not mobile and cannot actually attend the high street practice the optometrist will often visit nursing or care homes to carry out a spectacle check and eye health examination. This can be arranged locally. Wearing the correct spectacles will also aid in preventing trips and falls and reduce the likelihood of serious injury.

By wearing the correct spectacles and having regular check-ups early detection and treatment of eye conditions, will help preserve sight.

There’s another side to eye health too. Vitamin supplements which are considered to be good for eye health are available from most large pharmacies and health shops. How effective they are is a point of debate and anyone thinking of taking vitamin supplements should  talk to their doctor or pharmacist first .

There has been a very impressive improvement in eye care in recent years in the UK, not just in the effectiveness of medicines used to treat eye conditions but in diagnosis. New technologies which enable earlier and more accurate diagnosis and treatment have made a significant difference to eye care and outcomes in recent years. This can only be good news.

At Guide Dogs we will continue to contribute to research into various aspects of eye health, but we all need to take personal responsibility for ensuring that we take care of our ourselves and of our sight.

Alison Hood, Research Development Manager, Guide Dogs.

Follow this link for more information on World Sight Day