Survey highlights levels of frustration caused by imperfect vision

A new survey has found that almost half of UK adults without perfect vision admit they feel ‘held back’ by their sight.

The survey of 2000 adults without perfect vision, commissioned by Johnson & Johnson’s Acuvue brand, found that despite feeling restricted, a quarter of respondents don’t do anything to try to improve their vision, such as visiting an optometrist.

The poll indicated that 59% are regularly frustrated by their sight without the help of glasses or contact lenses, with 23% admitting it has impacted their confidence.

Inability to see details, feelings of anxiety, and struggling to recognise people from a distance were the main reasons for a drop in confidence.

A third feel held back in their work life, due to an inability to focus on detail for prolonged periods.

Three quarters also reported experiencing ‘tired eyes’ on a regular basis due to extended screen time and reading for long periods.

Tired eyes are primarily experienced in the evenings, the poll indicated, with respondents compensating by taking a nap (37%) or finding themselves rubbing their eyes (34%).

The survey found that 31% of respondents are unsatisfied with not being able to see the world as clearly as they’d like.

Of the survey participants, 18% said they lacked confidence in themselves when wearing glasses.

Chirag Amin, general manager for Johnson & Johnson Vision Care in the UK and Ireland, commented: “It is evident that many people in the UK are simply putting up with their discomfort or tired eyes when it comes to their vision care – missing out on the moments that add to life – when they could use a contact lens that is well suited for their lifestyle instead.”

The recent survey was commissioned as part of the Acuvue I see you campaign, which encourages adults to get the most out of their local city by highlighting the benefits of contact lenses.

The survey revealed that residents in Edinburgh, Birmingham, and Bristol are most frustrated by the ways their sight holds them back. Those in Sheffield, Glasgow, and Liverpool feel the least effect on their daily lives.

Respondents in Scotland reported the biggest effects to their confidence of uncorrected vision.

A third of respondents admit the effect of their sight on day-to-day life is significant, with Gen Z most likely to feel their sight is a barrier.

Adults between the ages of 26 and 35 put off the greatest number of activities due to visual limitations, hindered in an average of three tasks they would like to do.

Only 18% of those polled wear contact lenses, with 69% wearing glasses.

Amin highlighted: “We want people to really soak up the fantastic cities they live in and enjoy all of the benefits that come with a bustling urban life – but do so without compromising their sight.”

“This can be easier said than done if you don’t have the right eye care solution to match your needs – being left frustrated by the impact imperfect vision can have on your life,” he said.

Amin added: “The results are quite staggering when you think of how many people struggle with discomfort – and that should never be the case when great contact lenses exist, which prioritise maximum comfort and clarity, to better help people enjoy life unrestricted.”