JANUARY NEWSLETTER No. 344
Ways to protect your eyes in 2024
With the World Health Organization (WHO) estimating that over 80% of all vision impairments can be prevented and even cured, the importance of eye care cannot be overstated. This is especially true as we age.
Protecting your eyes from UV damage and mechanical injury is essential for maintaining good eye health
Lifestyle factors such as diet and smoking can also have a significant impact on eye health. A diet rich in vitamins C and E, green leafy vegetables, and quitting smoking can all contribute to preventing vision impairment
Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in adults worldwide, accounting for almost half of all cases in people who are 50 years or older. Early detection and intervention are key to preventing and managing this condition
Unusual symptoms of silent killer that can be spotted by checking your eyes
Ocular hypertension, which is also known as raised eye pressure, can lead to serious long-term problems including glaucoma but the condition can be spotted with an eye test.
https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/health/unusual-symptoms-silent-killer-can-31731662
How artificial intelligence transformed technology for the blind in 2023:
Sight loss charities express ‘grave concern’ over downgrading of disabilities minister position
Guide Dogs, RNIB and the Thomas Pocklington Trust have reiterated that those living with disabilities need a ‘dedicated champion’ in government. Three leading sight loss charities have spoken out over the Government’s decision not to appoint a specific minister for disabled people. The role, previously held by Tom Pursglove, has been downgraded from a ministerial position to a parliamentary undersecretary of state role.
Guide Dogs, Royal National Institute of Blind People and the Thomas Pocklington Trust have emphasised the importance of having a minister with a clear focus on issues affecting disabled people.
They underlined that this group is being disproportionately affected by the cost-of-living crisis.
In a joint statement, the charities said: “We need a dedicated champion at a senior level within Government to ensure the voices of people with disabilities are being heard, as time and again the needs of people with disabilities are ignored.
Envision glasses use ChatGPT and Google Glass to help blind and low vision
Video details here: https://www.businessinsider.com/envision-glasses-chatgpt-google-glass-help-blind-visually-impaired-2023-12?r=US&IR=T
Report laying out a blueprint for eye health launched at Westminster Eye Health Day
The third annual Westminster Eye Health Day saw the launch of a report identifying prevention, diagnosis, technology, workforce issues and equity of access as focal points for a national eye health strategy.