Most cataracts are age-related and develop after the age of 60. But even if you’re not in your 60s (or anywhere near that age), it can still be helpful to know the early signs of cataracts. According to Dr. Edward Hedaya and the team at InVision Eye Care, you might be able to help identify cataracts symptoms in a parent, sibling or friend and gently encourage them to seek help before their cataracts get worse.
Difficulty Driving
If you are in the car with a loved one and they seem to have difficulty seeing street signs, traffic lights or freeway exits, the problem could be cataracts. Or, if they want to avoid driving altogether because they are suddenly uncomfortable on the road, it could suggest that vision loss from cataracts is taking a toll.
Lack of Interest in Their Hobbies
Has a loved one lost interest in their favorite hobbies or daily activities, like watching television, reading or writing? It could be because they cannot see the TV or discern fine print anymore due to the effects of cataracts.
Frequent Changes in Glasses or Contacts Prescription
If a loved one frequently expresses frustration that their glasses aren’t working well anymore, or you notice they have changed their eyeglass or contact lens prescription several times within a relatively short time span, it might indicate the onset of cataracts.
Complaints about Dull or Faded Colors
Pay attention to other complaints your loved one makes about their vision. If they mention that colors look duller or more yellowish than normal, their comments could indicate the presence of cataracts. They may give you other verbal clues that they are suffering from cataracts — for example, they may complain their vision is cloudy or blurry or they are experiencing double vision.
How to Help
If you suspect a loved one might have cataracts, the best thing you can do is encourage them to see their eye doctor for an evaluation. Catching and treating cataracts early can save someone from years of frustration due to the effects of limited vision. Identifying cataracts early may even help your loved one avoid falling or getting into a car accident because of compromised vision from cataracts.
If you would like more information about cataracts, Dr. Hedaya invites you to contact InVision EyeCare by calling (732) 607-8515 today.
