Young adults are being urged to make regular eye checks one of their New Year’s resolutions by leading sight loss charity RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People). The reminder comes as research commissioned by the charity reveals that almost half (47 per cent) of all adults aged 34 or younger have not had an eye test in the last two years. That’s despite almost three quarters (74 per cent) knowing they should have a check-up at least every two years.
Cost seemed to be the major barrier, with one quarter of young adults saying the reason they don’t have an eye test more often is because they’re expensive.
The survey of more than 1,000 adults in the UK revealed slightly more reassuring results for older adults; almost two thirds (63 per cent) of adults aged 35 and over have had an eye test in the last two years.
There are an estimated two million people in the UK who are living with sight loss, but a staggering 50 per cent of these cases are believed to be preventable.
RNIB is encouraging everyone to see their optician or optometrist at least every two years even if you don’t think there’s anything wrong with your sight. That’s because eye tests can detect the early signs of eye conditions which can lead to blindness such as glaucoma. An eye test can also detect other health conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
Lesley-Anne Alexander CBE, Chief Executive at RNIB, said:
“It is really important to get into the habit of having regular eye tests at a young age as anyone can be affected by a sight-threatening condition at any time.
“Everyone should have an eye test at least every two years, even if they have not noticed any problems with their eyes.”
For more information about eye health visit www.rnib.org.uk/eyehealth or call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999.
