College research highlights potential damage to eye health due to increased cost of living

The College of Optometrists is urgently encouraging the public to consider their eye health as recent research shows 50% of people say that the cost of living will have an impact on how they care for their eyes in the future. A concerning 22% of people have admitted to postponing or cancelling an appointment in the past year.

Dr Paramdeep Bilkhu MCOptom, Clinical Adviser at The College of Optometrists said; “It’s troubling to know that people’s vision and eye health may be impacted by the cost of living crisis, and I would urge anyone due a sight test or with any eye problems such as a change in vision to prioritise it where possible. 

Having your sight tested does not have to be expensive; there are many groups of people who will be entitled to an NHS-funded sight test. We know that people are not aware of the government support available to them; our research shows that only half of people are aware that children under the age of 16 are entitled to NHS funded sight tests in the UK. 

When it comes to your eye health, early detection of eye problems is very important, especially for children, where we have a small window to time to correct any issues. We urge parents particularly not to be put off by cost; even if your child does need glasses, they will be entitled to an optical voucher to help towards the cost.”

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