New Study Reveals High Levels Of Uncorrected Sight Loss - Half Those Needing Spectacles Fail To Get Them, UK

Main Category: Eye Health / Blindness
Article Date: 14 Oct 2008 - 1:00 PDT

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In a recent study of South Londoners released to mark World Sight Day (9th October) by the sight loss charity, Thomas Pocklington Trust (1), over 50% were found to have correctable eye problems. About a third of the Londoners surveyed had low vision which simply required correction with new glasses.

When glasses were supplied the study assessed their impact on lifestyle and revealed a direct correlation between the degree of improvement in eye-sight and the gains in quality of life (2). This is thought to be the first study to demonstrate this effect.

The research, which focused on people over 65, also examined two new methods of eye-testing (3). Both detected the most common eye problems and both were quick, easy to use and could be performed in people's homes or community settings. The research highlighted the problem of older people on low incomes avoiding going for eye tests.

"The notion that older people with visual problems will fully engage in eye care services is clearly nothing more than an ideal," says Professor Bruce Evans, author of the study entitled Improving the detection of correctable low vision in older people (4). "This research confirms there is a high level of correctable visual loss among older people and shows the need for methods that encourage them to seek eye care."

NHS Optical Vouchers are supposed to help those on low incomes but the study revealed that almost a third of South London optical practices did not provide spectacles whose cost was fully covered by the Vouchers. The researchers suggested that the value of these vouchers should be raised so that all practices could afford to supply glasses at voucher value.

The voucher system is just one example of where the current funding system falls down. Currently, NHS eye tests in England are subsidised by all those who purchase spectacles. The report suggests that this should change and English NHS eye care should be properly funded as it is in Scotland.

The two screening methods tested - one computerised and one presented as a flipchart - were found to be appropriate for use by lay people and could therefore be taken to community settings such as day-care and community centres. Health or care staff could use the flip chart in older people's homes. It took just 8-10 minutes to complete the computer test and 5 minutes for the flip chart.

"These tests, taken in the community in just 10 minutes, could help solve the problem of undetected but correctable sight loss and lead to improvements in people's quality of life," said Professor Evans.

Such tests are not intended to replace the need for regular professional eye care but can stimulate people to seek the vital care they need. Further trials of the tests are now needed.

http://www.pocklington-trust.org.uk