World Blindness Awareness Month

Every October, World Blindness Awareness Month brings a heightened focus on the blind and visually impaired community. It was established in 2009 to help people understand the realities of living without sight. The World Health Organization estimates that almost 285 million people suffer from blindness or visual impairment worldwide. In the United States about 4 million Americans are blind and 47,000 (1 person every minute) become blind each year. It is important to understand how to maintain optimal eye health and how to navigate life with visual impairments, whether for ourselves or loved ones.

Blindness and visual impairment increase as we age, and impact senior populations. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “everyone, if they live long enough, will experience at least one eye condition in their lifetime”. The eyes undergo wear and tear through the years, which can impact vision, and the body simply does not function as well in later decades, such as in your 80’s or 90’s. If you are diabetic, it is very important to monitor your sugar in order to protect your eyes. Tips to maintain eye health include washing your hands often to prevent infection, wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV/B rays, limiting screen time to avoid eye strain, and to get regular eye exams.

Blindness Awareness Month seeks to accomplish:

-Education: Companies and organizations around the world teach the public about good eye health, including the latest research and innovations in the treatment of eye disorders.

-Inspiration: Experiences and stories are shared about blind or visually impaired individuals accomplishing incredible things that most sighted people may not even attempt.

-Advocacy: Organizations garner support for more resources, research, access, and laws that enable people with visual impairments to live equitable, full lives and be included in society.

Private Home Care celebrates World Blindness Awareness Month to help increase understanding and knowledge of this condition. We encourage using this month as an opportunity to get your vision checked and assess your lifestyle in order to ensure eye health and clear vision for years to come!