Questions and Answers about Glaucoma from the Experts at Lighthouse International
May is Healthy Vision Month, which this year focuses on glaucoma. In recognition, Lighthouse International is issuing practical advice for people who are at risk for, or are experiencing, vision loss from glaucoma. Healthy Vision Month is sponsored by the National Eye Institute's National Eye Health Education Program.
What Is Glaucoma?
In the US, three million people have glaucoma, and half of them are unaware they have this potentially blinding disease. Glaucoma results in vision loss over time in approximately one in ten people. Chronically fluctuating or elevated eye pressure can eventually damage the optic nerve, resulting in loss of peripheral (or side) vision. People experiencing these changes may become visually impaired despite the best medical care and treatment.
What Are the Risk Factors for Glaucoma?
According to Dr. Eleanor E. Faye, Medical Director of Lighthouse International, "Until recently, increased eye pressure was considered to be the major risk factor in glaucoma, and it was believed that lowering this pressure would protect the eye's optic nerve from damage. While this is true, it is not a complete explanation. The effect of pressure on the optic nerve varies for each person. Current concepts clarify that vision loss in glaucoma is a response of a layer of cells in the retina (ganglion cells) to elevated or, in some cases normal, eye pressure. Genetics may also contribute."
Although anyone can develop glaucoma, some people are at higher risk, including African Americans over the age of 40, and everyone over the age of 60, especially Hispanics.
What Challenges Do People with Advanced Glaucoma Experience?
Individuals who have lost vision due to glaucoma may experience:
- Mobility issues -- inability to see curbs, changes in surfaces and other obstacles; fear of accidents and falling due to impaired side vision
- Poor night vision
- Difficulty reading
- Decreased response to magnification
- Inability to differentiate colors
- Reduced contrast
- Increased need for light
- Difficulty identifying medication labels
- Issues of compliance with taking many drops for glaucoma
- Depression related to vision loss
What Can the Lighthouse Do to Help People Adapt to Life with Glaucoma?
Lighthouse International, which is dedicated to helping people of all ages overcome the challenges of vision loss, provides a range of vision healthcare services that promote safety and independence. Based on an evaluation of functional vision, Lighthouse low vision doctors and rehabilitation professionals can help people with glaucoma maximize their remaining vision and ability to accomplish daily tasks. And Lighthouse mental health professionals can provide the support needed to adjust to life with vision loss. They work as a team to design an individual rehabilitation plan with solutions to specific problems such as reading -- often with the help of prescribed optical devices -- crossing streets, and any other activity someone is having difficulty with.
What Practical Adaptations May Improve Life with Glaucoma-related Vision Loss?
Rehabilitation professionals can introduce safe, new, practical ways to help meet daily challenges, including:
- Scanning techniques to help compensate for loss of peripheral vision
- Eliminating or reducing glare, where possible (for example, using a tablecloth to cut glare from glossy or polished tabletops; positioning the television or computer screen away from windows)
- Increasing contrast to read print and distinguish objects in the environment (such as using colored safety tape or tread strips to point out thresholds and steps; and using a white plate on a dark placemat)
- Medication labeling and organizing techniques
- Using high-contrast or raised dot labels, along with other adaptations for the kitchen, laundry and household needs
- Computer adaptations and accessibility training
- Special tinted lenses to increase contrast and reduce glare
How Can I Get Help from the Lighthouse?
Ask your doctor to refer you to the Lighthouse or call (800) 829-0500. The Lighthouse is a Medicare and Medicaid provider, and accepts many insurance plans.
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Founded in 1905, Lighthouse International is a leading non-profit organization that helps people of all ages overcome the challenges of vision loss. Through services, education, research and advocacy, the Lighthouse enables people with low vision and blindness to enjoy safe, independent and productive lives. For more information about vision loss, its causes and what you can do about it, contact Lighthouse International at (800) 829-0500.