Blindness and vision impairment can have enormous personal, social and economic costs, limiting the activities of otherwise healthy and active people, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
To those who do not seek professional help because they are worried about its cost, the academy recommends EyeCare America. Eligible seniors receive a dilated eye exam and up to one year of treatment at no out-of-pocket cost to the patient.
A public service program of the Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, EyeCare America provides care through its network of ophthalmologists who have agreed to accept Medicare or other insurance as payment in full.
This summer, Eyecare America is running a promotional campaign called “Don’t Lose Sight of Your Independence,” intended to remind the senior community about the value of eyesight and encouraging people to call the Seniors EyeCare Program.
In America today, more than two-thirds of visually impaired adults are 65 or older. Approximately 5.5 million people over 65 are blind or have low vision.
Nearly 20.5 million American seniors are afflicted with cataracts, the leading cause of blindness in the United States.
In addition, a recent study out of the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston indicated that seniors suffering from poor vision have shown evidence of a premature mental decline. The results of this study bring to light the importance of routine eye care for older adults.
Unless those with low vision get help, they may suffer from anxiety, frustration and depression that diminish their quality of life.
EyeCare America provides eye-care services to the medically underserved and for those at increased risk for eye disease through its corps of 7,500 volunteer ophthalmologists dedicated to serving their communities. More than 90 percent of the care made available is provided at no out-of-pocket cost to the patients. Programs for seniors, sufferers of glaucoma and diabetes, and children are available.
The Seniors EyeCare Program is co-sponsored by the Knights Templar Eye Foundation, Inc. and Alcon.
For questions about eligibility, call (800) 222-3937. The EyeCare America help line operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. More information can also be found at www.eyecareamerica.org.