Elderly drivers warned of ‘quite normal’ vision issues despite urgent calls for compulsory eye tests
Experts have issued an urgent appeal for all motorists aged over 60 to schedule regular eye examinations, amidst growing concerns about elderly driver safety on British roads.
The call comes amid recent calls that have sparked discussions about the need for older drivers to undergo reviews of their skills and medical conditions.
Some experts emphasise that whilst eyesight naturally deteriorates with age, regular eye examinations can detect early signs of eye conditions and ensure prescriptions remain current.
Regular vision checks can help address any uncertainty about changes to eyesight and are described as “absolutely imperative” for maintaining good eye health.
A spokesperson from Leightons Opticians said: “It’s quite normal to experience weaker eyesight as we grow older, but sometimes, we fail to notice these changes ourselves at any age.”
Regular eye examinations play a vital role in ensuring older drivers remain safe on the roads, with experts highlighting their importance in maintaining visual acuity.
These tests can detect early warning signs of eye conditions that might otherwise go unnoticed by individuals themselves.
While age-related eye changes cannot be prevented entirely, professional eye examinations serve as a crucial tool in monitoring and addressing vision-related concerns.
These assessments ensure prescriptions remain up-to-date, optimising visual clarity for elderly motorists behind the wheel.
The spokesperson said certain measures were crucial to slow age-related eye damage including a healthy diet rich in vitamins A and C, including fruits and leafy greens, describing it as “essential”.
Smoking should be avoided, as it exposes eyes to high levels of oxidative stress and can lead to numerous eye problems.
Regular exercise is recommended to improve blood circulation and oxygen levels to the eyes, while adequate sleep is also crucial to avoid unnecessary eye strain.
The spokesperson added: “We recommend that you add an annual eye test to your routine health check-up. For the elderly, there are many concessions available.”
They added that drivers over the age of 60 could qualify for a free NHS eye test, with further provisions for those diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma.
This comes as the Association of Optometrists found that one in four people are concerned about someone they know driving with poor vision, prompting urgent calls for change.
Almost one-third of optometrists say the number of patients they are advising not to drive due to poor vision has increased in the last three years.
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Adam Sampson, chief executive of the Association of Optometrists, said: “Our polling shows the majority of the public support the idea of mandatory regular sight tests for all drivers.
“That’s why we are calling on the Department for Transport to update the law to ensure all drivers are required to have their vision checked and this should be done by reliable means.”
A Department for Transport spokesperson said: “Every death on our roads is a tragedy, and our thoughts remain with the families of everyone who has lost a loved one in this way.
“The NHS recommends adults should have their eyes tested every two years, and while we do not have plans to change eyesight requirements for driving, we continue to explore ways to improve road safety.”