Poor vision can result in falls, one of the main reasons for admissions into hospital for over-75s. Here are a few ways you can protect yourself from falls:
- Avoid clutter on your floors and ensure adequate lighting
- Be aware of your eye health and notice changes, and talk about these changes with family and friends
- Have your eyes examined regularly by an optometrist so that they can detect problems early.
If you think you have a problem, consult an optometrist immediately so that they can detect, diagnose, and manage/treat your eye problems, and update your lenses (Optometrists Association Australia 2009)
Macular Degeneration
The macula is the central part of the retina, at the back of the eye, that allows you to read, recognise faces, watch television, and drive a car. Macular degeneration (MD) happens when this part of the eye breaks down. MD affects one in seven people over the age of 50, and one in three over the age of 75. Early detection of MD is crucial, as lost vision cannot be regained.
Symptoms of MD include difficulty reading, seeing straight lines as bent, poor central vision, poor night vision, and intolerance of glare. Although there is no cure for MD, there are treatment options that can slow down its progression. The earlier the disease is detected, the more vision you are likely to retain, so please ensure you have your eyes examined regularly, even before symptoms appear. (Optometrists Association Australia 2005)
WebLens product
Nikon’s new WebLens is a specially designed reading lens for people who need to focus on a wide range of distances at the same time. With its innovative design, the WebLens allows you to read documents, computer keyboards, computer screens, and blackboards without strain.
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