Thirty percent of those aged 56 and above are not getting their eyes checked.

Many Singaporeans are not proactively taking charge of their health or making health-related actions for themselves, especially  when it comes to eye health screenings, according to a recent study conducted by Johnson & Johnson. Based on national guidelines, the typical frequency of eye health check-ups recommended for those without pre-existing conditions is once every two years. However, only about half of Singaporeans (52 percent) are meeting this recommended frequency.

Twelve percent get their eyes assessed once every three to four years, while a significant 32 percent do not get their eyes examined at all unless they are experiencing vision impairment or issues. When looking specifically at those aged 56 and above, it is particularly concerning that close to 30 percent are not getting their eyes checked at all despite being in the highest risk group for serious eye conditions that can lead to blindness, including cataracts and glaucoma.

Aligned with these findings, many Singaporeans are taking a “wait-and-see” approach instead of acting on eye health issues immediately. Fifty-eight percent would only consider reaching out for professional eye care assistance if they are experiencing moderate to severe vision impairment that is affecting their daily lives.

Dr Ronald Yeoh, ophthalmologist at Eye and Retina Surgeons, concurs with the findings and notes that some of the patients who visit him have typically reached the late stages of an eye health condition, a few of whom would be experiencing serious vision impairment or vision loss. He further explained that delays in diagnosis or treatment for certain eye conditions, such as glaucoma, could lead to irreversible vision loss or yield poorer treatment outcomes.

The research also looked at the behaviours of younger Singaporeans (30 to 55 years old) versus older Singaporeans (56 years and up). Interestingly, the younger group are more risk-averse and experience more psychological barriers when it comes to seeking help. They are also less aware of where and how to look for information or seek help compared to those older.

When asked what prevents one from reaching out to an eye care professional, the study found that:

• Younger Singaporeans are hesitant to go for eye health screenings as they are more afraid than those older Singaporeans of detecting a serious health issue in the screening (young versus older: 32 percent versus 23 percent respectively).
• Younger Singaporeans are also more worried about the risks or possible complications of surgery compared to those older (young versus older: 48 percent versus 44 percent).
• Younger Singaporeans are more worried about cost and have greater financial concerns compared to those older (young versus older: 60 percent versus 46 percent).

In Singapore, nearly 80 percent of seniors are affected by cataracts. The number of people affected by cataracts also increases with age – it affects about 64 percent of those between 60 and 64 years, and 95 percent of people aged 75 years and older.

“If Singaporeans – both patients and their caregivers – lack knowledge around the condition and available treatment options, then they might miss the opportunity to make the best decision for themselves. For example, many people are unaware that cataract surgery, depending on the type of intraocular lens chosen, can also correct presbyopia, or commonly referred to as “lao hua yan” and astigmatism,” said Dr Yeoh.

He further added: “More importantly, if they are fearful or not proactive in getting their eye health screenings, and on top of that are dragging their feet when it comes to being treated, then there is a real risk that their quality of life, especially in their golden years, will be impacted.”

For those with cataracts and caregivers who want to be more involved in the decision-making process for treatment options, they can visit www.beyondcataracts.com.sg to learn how to go about selecting the right intraocular lens.