Money worries put eyesight at risk
Millions of people in the UK are putting their eyesight at risk by failing to have regular eye tests, according to research by the Eyecare Trust*.
The Trust’s survey suggests around 20 million people in the UK are putting off taking eye examinations, with many of them citing a fear of the costs of lenses, frames and contacts as the main reason.
The study, coinciding with National Eye Week, which runs from November 24-30, also suggests that half of all parents do not ensure their children receive regular tests. One in five children are estimated to have an undetected problem which could lead to poorer sight in adulthood, according to the research.
Iain Anderson, chairman of the Eyecare Trust, said: “Sight loss already costs the British economy £5.5 billion a year and with official estimates predicting that the number of people registered blind will double by 2030, it's vital that we encourage more people to have regular sight tests - generally once every two years.
“Worryingly our study highlights how it's the sectors of society - children and pensioners - that are most vulnerable to sight loss who are failing to get their sight tested.”
The findings by the Eyecare Trust support Westfield Health’s own research from earlier this year, which revealed that nearly half of the population are neglecting their eyesight.
Westfield’s survey, which polled 510 adults aged 18 and over, highlighted that 48 per cent of respondents do not have regular eye examinations and six per cent have never had their eyes tested.
The poll also indicated that cost is the main reason why people choose not to visit the optician, emphasising the Eyecare Trust’s key finding. Half of the respondents in Westfield’s survey were unable to afford to replace their glasses as often as they would like.
All of Westfield’s cash plans offer an optical benefit, enabling policyholders to claim back the cost of eye examinations, glasses and contact lenses up to set limits. Some of Westfield’s cash plans also provide cover towards the cost of policyholder’s dependent children’s optical care.
Reference:
* http://www.inthenews.co.uk/news/healthandscience/health/millions-putting-eyesight-at-risk-due-fear-costs-$1250694.htm – ‘Millions putting eyesight at risk due to fear of costs’
http://www.nationaleyeweek.co.uk
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