When it comes to our sight, the concept of vision loss is something that so many of us can’t even begin to comprehend. But for the half a million Canadians who do have to deal with this condition every single day, it places life into a whole new perspective. There are, however, ways to treat and even prevent vision loss, in some cases up to 75 percent, yet few people realize this. If you or someone you love is suffering from vision loss, here are five surprising facts for you to know.

More than 500,000 Canadians are living with vision loss

Each year, another 50,000 Canadians will lose their sight, most of those caused by eye disease. Those living with major eye disease are more than 5.5 million strong.

The leading cause of vision loss in Canada can be attributed to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This is generally caused by a deterioration of the eye’s macula, which is the small area in the retina responsible for allowing you to see fine details. And in Canada, there are approximately 1.4 million people living with this condition.

The most common causes of vision loss include cataracts

Aside from AMD, there are other common diseases that are common culprits for vision loss. The most common are: include cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and refractive error.

Globally about 75% of all vision impairment is avoidable

According to studies done by the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB), 75% of vision loss is avoidable or can be treated. However, for many people, they simply are uninformed about their vision health and therefore, end up often living with eye disease often without even realizing it.

Only one-third of Canadian working-age adults who are living with vision loss are employed

Due to a lack of resources and funding, there is a shortage of workplaces that assist and encourage those suffering from vision loss to enter the work force. As a result, approximately half of Canadian working-age adults with vision loss are struggling to get by on just $20,000 a year or less.

There’s a greater risk of social isolation and depression for those with vision loss

When people can’t properly see and work, it’s easy to become isolated from any form of social participation. This is especially true for those who are 60 years of age or older – they are three times more likely to experience clinical depression than those who have good vision.

Vision Loss expected to increase 30% in the next decade

Due to our aging population and growing trend in obesity and diabetes, the amount of Canadians suffering from vision loss is expected to dramatically increase over the next decade.

Never take your vision lightly. If you or someone you know is experiencing any issues with sight, always have an ophthalmologist inspect them for any signs of deterioration and disease so that you can avoid any potential vision loss in the future.

Treat your eyes with care – book your appointment with Laurier Optical Innes Eye Clinic today.