This World Sight Day (Thursday, 9 October), Optometry Australia is calling on all Australians to think differently about eye health.
Vision problems don’t always come with obvious warning signs and by the time symptoms appear irreversible damage may already be done.
Whether it’s children with undiagnosed myopia, older Australians at risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) or drivers struggling with poor night vision, hidden vision problems can quietly affect day-to-day life, and the sooner they’re detected, the better the potential outcome.
Childhood myopia: a growing concern
Myopia (short-sightedness) is on the rise.
A 2023 study by the Brien Holden Vision Institute found that 36% of Australians are myopic, with projections suggesting this could rise to over 50% by 2040.
Even more concerning, children are being diagnosed younger, prescriptions are progressing faster, and high myopia (5.00D or worse) is becoming more common.
Recent research commissioned by Optometry Australia and UNSW uncovered knowledge gaps in the community:
- 21% of Australians have never heard of myopia
- 32% know the term but can’t name symptoms
- 85% don’t know treatments exist to slow its progression
- 59% are unaware that myopia can cause vision problems later in life
“Childhood myopia is one of the fastest-growing eye health challenges. Early detection through regular eye exams gives us the best chance to manage it and protect vision for life,” said Luke Arundel, Chief Clinical Officer at Optometry Australia.
Older Australians and Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss for Australians over 50. Around 1.5 million Australians in this age group show signs of AMD, and that number is growing.
AMD can steal central vision - the detail we need for reading, recognising faces and driving – making early detection key.
Regular eye exams enable optometrists to identify AMD in its early stages, allowing for treatment to slow its progression and preserve independence.
Poor night vision: a road safety issue
For many Australians, driving at night can be a challenging experience.
Research by the Traffic Accident Commission found that 51% of women and 36% of men aged 18–25 rate their night vision as poor to average.
Poor night vision can compromise safety on the road, but it’s often overlooked.
Regular eye exams help detect any issues early and address them before they become a hazard.
The big picture: why regular eye exams matter
More than 13 million Australians already live with a long-term eye condition. With our ageing population, that number is set to rise.
Around 90% of vision impairment is preventable or treatable with early intervention.
“This World Sight Day, we’re urging Australians to treat their eye exam the same as a dental or health check-up. Regular eye checks aren’t just about maintaining vision. They’re a vital part of overall health, helping detect issues early, protect independence and allow people to keep living life to the fullest.”
How often should you get an eye exam?
Optometry Australia recommends:
- Every year for children from the time they start kindergarten until age 18
- Every two years for adults (unless otherwise advised)
- More often for people over 65, those with underlying health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, or anyone with a history of eye disease
This World Sight Day, take a moment to prioritise your vision.
Find your closest trusted optometrist through Good Vision For Life’s Find an Optometrist search tool and take a proactive step towards protecting your sight by booking an eye exam today.
Because good vision isn’t just about seeing well; it’s about living well.
