Motoring
Millions of drivers aged between 35 and 55 are regularly taking to the roads and risking accidents through not being able to see adequately, reveals a new study released today. One in five (20 per cent) of middle-aged drivers in the UK has driven knowing that they have poor eyesight, according to the study by the College of Optometrists.
The study also revealed that as well as driving with poor eye sight, nine per cent of middle-aged Brits operate heavy machinery knowing their eye sight isn't correct. Over a quarter (28 per cent) admitted that they put off going for a sight test for up to six months after noticing their eyesight had deteriorated - and a startling 21% put it off for up to 5 years.
When asked the reason why they put off going for an eye test 43 per cent of people said that wearing glasses would make them feel older. A quarter of those who said they wouldn't seek optical advice claimed it was because they ‘couldn't be bothered' and almost a fifth (18 per cent) said they didn't visit the optician because of the cost of glasses and contact lenses.
The study showed that middle-aged men are the worst culprits when it comes to looking after their eyes, with almost one in three stating they wouldn't go for a sight test if they noticed a deterioration in their eyesight.
Dr Susan Blakeney, Optometric Adviser to the College of Optometrists, says: "Middle-age is often characterised by the onset of age-related health problems, and it seems failing eyesight is very low down on the list of priorities for most people. This ‘laissez-faire' attitude is extremely worrying - particularly given that our research findings show millions of people in this age group are driving knowing full well that they can't see properly. Focussing problems are often worse in low light levels so at this time of year when the morning and evening rush hours are in the dark, it is even more important to ensure that people can see clearly. People may be worried that wearing spectacles makes them look and feel older, but this needn't be the case as wearing spectacles is often seen as a fashion statement, and there are always contact lenses for those that really don't want anyone to know! Spectacles needn't be expensive, with most optical practices offering budget pairs for the price-conscious."
Once you reach your late-thirties/early forties you tend to notice your eye sight deteriorating, so it's extremely important for people in this age group, whether they wear spectacles or not, to go for regular eye examinations. As well as ensuring you get the most from your eyes, the eye examination is a vital health check and should be part of everyone's normal health regime.
According to Dr Blakeney, as we age the lenses in our eyes become less supple, which leads to difficulty focussing particularly on near objects. This loss of flexibility in focus occurs in middle age and is known as presbyopia. The first signs can include:
· having to hold a book further away when you read
· needing bright light to read in dim places
· headaches from doing close work
Says Dr. Blakeney: "It is important to remember that correcting sight problems can make you feel more comfortable, and while you may not like wearing spectacles, at least you'll be able to go about your daily life without hindrance and without being a danger to yourself and others."
Driving and vision - top tips from the College of Optometrists
* By law in the UK, a driver of a car or motorcycle must be able to read in good daylight (with spectacles or contact lenses if worn) a number plate with symbols 97.4mm (3 inches) high from a distance of 20.5 metres or 20 metres if the number plate displays a narrower fault. If you cannot meet this standard it is an offence to drive and your insurance may be invalidated. Regular eye examinations will help to ensure you get the most from your vision and are a vital health check - make sure you have your eyes examined around every two years.
* Always wear an up to date pair of spectacles or contact lenses while driving, if they are needed. Driving with uncorrected defective vision is an offence punishable with a fine of up to £1,000, three penalty points and possible disqualification.
* Keep a spare pair of spectacles in your vehicle. In some parts of Europe drivers who wear spectacles, must, by law, carry a spare pair in their car.
* Applicants for any driving license are required to declare on their application form that they can perform the task. Their ability to do so is normally officially verified only at the time when the driving test is taken, with no further check occurring until the driver reaches the age of 70. The College of Optometrists recommends regular eye examinations for all.
* For night driving don't use tinted lenses. If possible have an anti-reflection coat on your spectacles, - your optometrist will be able to offer you advice.
* Don't forget to keep your car windscreen clean, inside and out, and all times!