Sight-saving Exeter clinic warns of higher risk of falls from untreated cataracts

People in Exeter are being warned of the risk factors that can lead to dangerous falls and fractures for those with impaired vision.

During Cataract Awareness Month this June, Newmedica Exeter is raising awareness about the signs of the condition and the risks it causes, while also reassuring people about how straightforward it is to treat.

Findings by the British Geriatrics Society show that 85% of people who experienced falls had a visual impairment, most commonly cataracts.

Although relatively common and easily treatable, cataracts cause blurred vision and eventually blindness if ignored, while also impacting a person’s ability to drive safely and enjoy other aspects of day-to-day life.

This comes as the RNIB says that the number of people in the UK with sight loss is set to double to more than four million by 2050.

A spokesperson for Newmedica Exeter said: ‘Cataracts are a clouding of the eye's natural lens, often causing blurred vision and affecting the person’s ability to judge distance and step height.

‘These symptoms make it difficult for someone to see trip hazards, which can result in serious injuries and a loss of independence, especially for older people.

‘If anyone believes they are developing cataracts, they should book a full eye exam with their local optician. When cataracts are found to have advanced to the stage where they affect the person’s day-to-day life, an optician will refer the patient to an ophthalmologist to see if surgery is required.’

Newmedica Exeter, based at Marsh Barton Industrial Estate, provides cataract surgery to restore people’s vision. The surgery involves removing the cloudy natural eye lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens.

The spokesperson added: ‘Although cataracts are not painful and usually grow slowly, waiting too long allows the natural lens to harden, increasing the complexity of eventual surgery.

‘It is therefore important that cataracts are diagnosed early, because this ensures a safer, more predictable surgical procedure and prevents the risk of permanent secondary damage to the eye.

‘Advancements in technology and surgical knowledge mean that the procedure to remove cataracts is very quick, carried out under local anaesthetic via eyedrops while the patient is awake, and is painless.

‘The aim of cataract surgery is to help people maintain their quality of life, whether that’s being able to read a book, drive a car or cook their dinner, as well as being more stable on their feet so that they avoid dangerous trips and falls.’

Newmedica Exeter has waiting times shorter than the national average, with patients often receiving their first appointment within a couple of weeks.

The clinic provides specialist eye services for people from towns such as Exeter, Topsham, Exmouth, Sidmouth and the surrounding area.