SpaMedica highlights vision needs during Road Safety Week

Following new research released to mark Road Safety Week (17–23 November), SpaMedica has encouraged the public to seek advice from an optometrist regarding any vision and eye health concerns.

A survey of more than 12,000 cataract patients revealed that 42% of people with cataracts struggled with driving before they had surgery.

It is estimated that up to one in three people in the UK, over the age of 65, have a cataract that affects their vision in one or both eyes.

SpaMedica shared that many patients reported that they did not feel confident driving while they had cataracts, especially at night when the glare of vehicle lights affected their vision.

Dr Alex Silvester, chief medical officer at SpaMedica, said: “We want everyone to feel safe on the roads, and a huge part of that is ensuring their vision is the best it can be.”

Silvester encouraged anyone with concerns about their vision or eye health to book an appointment with an optometrist “as soon as possible” for their “safety and peace of mind.”

SpaMedica suggested cataract surgery is the most common operation performed in the UK, with around half a million successful surgeries carried out every year. More than 98% of patients treated at SpaMedica regain driving-standard vision after surgery, the provider noted.

The AOP’s campaign Don’t swerve a sight test highlights the importance of good vision for driving, as well as the need for regular sight tests. Find resources, including patient information on the standard of vision needed for driving, here.