New research reveals a quarter of cataract sufferers feel ‘unsafe’

One in four people living with cataracts feel unsafe because they can’t see properly, according to a recent survey carried out by SpaMedica, the UK’s largest independent provider of NHS cataract surgery. The survey of over 4,500 patients shows that more than a third also feel upset or frustrated because their condition prevents them from doing daily tasks or hobbies. Many also say their mental health is affected – as they experience loneliness, isolation, loss of independence and feel they are a burden to friends and family.

In the UK, an estimated 30% of people over the age of 65 have a cataract that affects their vision in one or both eyes. Now, on World Sight Day (10 October 2024), leading ophthalmologists are calling for more to be done to treat people with cataracts sooner – and not dismiss the seriousness of the condition.

Ophthalmologist and chief medical officer at SpaMedica, Dr Alex Silvester, says, “It’s important to highlight the urgency of addressing cataracts, which remain a leading cause of blindness worldwide.

“Too often, people dismiss cataracts as a natural part of ageing, delaying treatment until the condition has severely impacted their quality of life. Then, when they do seek treatment, waiting times are often much longer than they anticipated.

“Early diagnosis and timely surgery can restore vision and transform lives, yet thousands of people are still waiting for treatment. We must do more to ensure prompt access to cataract surgery for everyone who needs it, which is why we’re proud to offer treatment in as little as 4-8 weeks at SpaMedica.”

Rob Fellows, from Stourbridge in Birmingham, struggled with cataracts for years. As a professional musician and music teacher, reading music is a big part of Rob’s life. His day job for the local music service in Birmingham also requires lots of driving between schools in the West Midlands, and to gigs – where he is the lead guitarist in a Cliff Richard and the Shadows tribute band ‘Into the Shadows’.

Rob’s doctor recommended he get an eye test with his local optician, who stopped halfway through and told Rob that his cataracts were having a serious effect on his eyesight and needed addressing.

“That’s when I was informed that my vision was borderline for driving, which was scary,” says Rob.

In England, patients can choose which NHS provider they have cataract surgery with, and Rob decided to have his treatment at the SpaMedica hospital in Wolverhampton.

He was treated without delay, and while he was naturally a bit apprehensive beforehand, Rob says he felt quite emotional because he knew it would have a massive impact on his quality of life.

He adds: “The surgery was painless. I felt a little bit of pressure, but apart from that it was an absolute breeze. I had a separate appointment for each eye and the surgery only took around 20 minutes – and it completely changed my life. The team at SpaMedica Wolverhampton were friendly and helpful. I’m sure they would put anyone’s mind completely at rest.”