More than 30% of all seniors will develop cataracts by 70 years old, according to estimates. That translates into more than 240 million people worldwide. Given the high percentage of people who will be diagnosed with cataracts, it’s probable that you’ll need to deal with them at some point. Do you know what that means? What’s it like to live with cataracts?
Firstly, to find out if you or a loved one has cataracts, book an eye exam with an eye doctor near me. We perform comprehensive eye exams for patients of all ages in our Woodcliff Lake and Midland Park, New Jersey, eye care centers.
Cataracts explained
The basic explanation is that cataracts are when the normally transparent lens of your eye develops cloudy spots. These opaque spots blur vision and cause people to require new glasses prescriptions regularly as cataracts progress. It’s possible for people to live with cataracts for a very long time without needing any treatment other than prescription eyeglasses. However, it can seriously affect many daily tasks and compromise a person’s enjoyment of life.
Effects of cataracts on daily life
- Difficulty reading
Cloudy vision makes it hard to see details and fine print. Your ability to read and write can become increasingly challenging.
- Uncoordinated walking and movements
Double vision may be a symptom of cataracts, and seeing two of everything can make any action that depends on coordination a challenge, such as walking and eating. You have a much higher risk of tripping or falling over a rug or missed step.
- Cooking and cleaning can be tricky
Blurry vision can affect your ability to read a recipe or add the right amount of an ingredient into a dish. Additionally, other domestic tasks such as cleaning the house can be harder to accomplish well. Even checking the clock to see the time can lead to frustration.
- Night driving is unclear
Cataracts typically cause people to see halos around light. Therefore, as cataracts progress, night vision is obviously impaired. Driving at night gradually becomes unsafe.
- Hobbies become unenjoyable
If your hobby involves seeing vibrant colors or differentiating between hues, cataracts usually take away the pleasure because they cause colors to appear faded and dull. Often, people with cataracts report that the world takes on a yellow tinge. Also, if your favorite hobbies include activities like fishing, sewing or golf, you won’t be able to discern the details you need to see clearly.
- Reduced independence
In general, living with cataracts leads to a loss of independence. People must rely on family and friends to help them perform household tasks, drive, and read. Decreased independence poses both practical and emotional challenges.
I want to visit an eye doctor near me for cataract treatment
While there’s presently no known method for preventing age-related cataracts, there are actions you can take to help slow their development. Learn more from our eye doctor in Woodcliff Lake and Midland Park, New Jersey.
Early detection of cataracts helps you get the most effective treatment. The good news is that cataract removal surgeries are among the safest and most commonly performed procedures out there. If cataracts are interfering with your daily life, consult with an eye doctor near you at James Tracey Eye Care to discuss your candidacy for cataract procedures.
At James Tracey Eye Care, we put your family's needs first. Talk to us about how we can help you maintain healthy vision. Call us today: 201-746-6700 or book an appointment online to see one of our Woodcliff Lake eye doctors.
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