Prevention
The importance of regular sight tests:
Many people think that a sight test is just about checking whether your vision needs correcting with glasses or contact lenses. But there are other important reasons to have a regular sight test.
A sight test is a vital check on the health of the eyes and includes the detection of eye conditions. Many of these, if found early, can be treated successfully, avoiding potential sight loss. A sight test can also detect other health conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
Frequency of Sight Tests:
Most people should have a sight test once every two years.
Certain groups may need a sight test more frequently. These include:
- People with a history of eye conditions in the family
- People of African Caribbean origin who are over 40
- People of South Asian origin who are over 40
Healthy Lifestyle:
A healthy lifestyle can prevent or delay the onset of some degenerative eye conditions. Smoking and excessive drinking can lead to sight loss; healthy eating and regular exercise can help your eyes to stay healthy.
Useful links:
Organisation of Blind Africans and Caribbeans: www.obac.org.uk
BAME Vision www.bamevision.org
Sight Loss and learning disabilities/neurodiversity: www.seeability.org
My Sight Notts Looking after your Eye Health: Looking After Your Eye Health
Eye Health Calculator: Eye Health Calculator – National Eye Health Week(visionmatters.org.uk)
