College of Optometrists’ survey shows 22 percent of people noticed their vision get worse during lockdown
Survey published as optometric services expand across England to offer wider care to patients
Survey published as optometric services expand across England to offer wider care to patients
As lockdown restrictions ease and optometrists are widening the range of services available to patients across England and Wales, the College of Optometrists has published survey results showing a significant number of people felt their vision got worse during lockdown. The research, conducted by independent research agency Opinium on behalf of the College, showed the following results:
Dr Susan Blakeney FCOptom, Clinical Adviser for The College of Optometrists said: “We know that many people will be concerned about vision changes during lockdown and many felt their vision changes were not serious enough to see an optometrist. It is very important that if your vision has deteriorated or if you are experiencing a red or painful eye you should telephone your local optometrist. They will be able to arrange a telephone consultation to help you get to the bottom of your problems and if needed they will arrange a face to face consultation.
“We know from research that 59 percent of people are concerned about contracting coronavirus when visiting their optometrist. However, optometric practices have made significant changes to ensure that eye care can be delivered to the high standards of safety that the public expect. Optometrists in England and Wales will be expected to comply with College guidance on social distancing, adapting the sight test, observing hygiene control measures and wearing personal protective equipment, such as medical face masks, during the consultation. We have created a video to show you what to expect at your optometric practice when you visit, so you might like to look at that if you need to see your optometrist in person.
“The research also showed us that many people believed that spending more time in front of screens has worsened their vision, although this may feel like eye strain it’s not likely to have a lasting impact and I would encourage you to follow our advice on avoiding eye strain if you are concerned.”
To find your local optometrists, visit our directory on our website LookAfterYourEyes.org.
Optometrists in Scotland are providing emergency care. Optometrists in Northern Ireland are providing urgent and essential care.
The College of Optometrists advice on avoiding eye strain:
The College has created a video which explains what patients can expect and how they can prepare for a visit to their optometrist which is available on the College YouTube site.
ENDS
Note to Editors