New stats from Vista reveal people with symptoms delay eye tests as sight loss is on the rise
These stats come as sight loss is on the rise. One in five people will live with sight loss in their lifetime, affecting 35,500 people across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.
The mental health impact of sight loss is significant with 62% of respondents saying a diagnosis has negatively affected their mental health and with nearly half (44%) saying their biggest fear is not being able to do the things they previously could.
Vista is at the forefront of positively improving the lives of people affected by sight loss in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, and the charity supported over 13,000 people affected by sight loss last year.
Eye screening in schools is an important part of Vista’s outreach work. During Eye Health Awareness Week Vista will be raising awareness of the importance of looking after your eyes with interactive and fun sessions with children in schools across the region.
People affected by sight loss have told Vista their essential services empower and support them to live well with sight loss, helping people stay in education, access employment and overcome everyday barriers to independence.
Craig, 34ys, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when he was just six years old. Reflecting back he wished he’d taken better care of his eye health but it was hard to come to terms with. He now wants to encourage others to look out for their eye health and get their eyes regularly tested.
Vista became a lifeline for Craig as he came to terms with his sight loss. Craig says:
“Facing sight loss is frightening. Vista was there for me at the hardest time of my life. They helped me in so many ways from the practical things like adapting my home to emotional support.”
Beth Brook, CEO of Vista, says:
“This Eye Health Awareness Week, Vista is highlighting the importance of prevention. Around 50% of sight loss is preventable, yet eye health is often overlooked in eye health strategies. Early intervention is key and regular sight tests are critical. Vista’s essential services are here for anyone affected by sight loss.”