The importance of early access to support and information when facing a potential sight loss diagnosis has been stressed by a Nottingham man who says he was left with many unanswered questions when he first began experiencing life-changing deterioration in his sight.
To coincide with National Eye Health Week (18-24 September), the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) has launched a free guide bringing together information about services, tips for questions to ask when attending hospital appointments, and links to emotional support to help while you wait to find out more.
More than one million people were referred to an eye specialist from January to June 2023, and the length of time waiting to attend the appointments can vary greatly across the country.1
Keith Lakin, who is now 87 and lives in Nottingham, says such timely information would have really helped him when he first began to experience sight loss 20 years ago. Keith explained: “When I was first diagnosed with macular degeneration in my right eye in 2003, I did not receive a clear definition of what the condition was. With no help or advice, I felt very alone with my condition. It was an extremely distressing time for the whole family and the lack of information made the feeling of uncertainty so much worse.”
Four years later, when Keith received a diagnosis of wet AMD (age-related macular degeneration) in his other eye, things were thankfully different.
He said: “Thanks to the support I received from the RNIB, I was able to be much more independent and emotionally I was much better because I knew that there was help and support out there when I needed it. It was a world of difference from the first time when everything was so uncertain.”
Louise Gow, RNIB’s Clinical Lead for Eye Health, Optometry and Low Vision Services, said: “Sudden changes in your vision should be checked urgently but it is important to know that many eye conditions have no symptoms in the early stages. At least 50% of sight loss could be prevented if detected early by a routine visit to your optometrist.
“If you have been diagnosed with an eye condition or you are waiting for a hospital appointment but still have questions, RNIB is here to support you and every step and can direct you to safe, reliable and accurate information.”
Whether or not you are noticing changes in your vision, RNIB advises everyone to have an eye test at least every two years, and more frequently if recommended by your optometrist.
National Eye Health Week takes place from 18-24 September, and promotes the importance of good eye health and the need for regular eye tests for all. For more information, visit Vision Matters - National Eye Health Week
For more practical information and advice if you are worried about your eyes, visit the RNIB website and get the new guide to waiting here.
References
1. Data from NHS England, July 2023 Statistics » Consultant-led Referral to Treatment Waiting Times Data 2023-24 (england.nhs.uk)
Image available on request.
