Nearly half of cataract patients struggle to drive before surgery, research shows
After poor vision caused him to drive off the road and burst two tyres, Doug Laver is now safely back behind the wheel with clear vision thanks to cataract treatment from SpaMedica.
It’s estimated over 29,000 people in Cheshire and Merseyside are living with cataracts and, like many others, Doug found dark rural road conditions and glare from oncoming headlights incredibly challenging. In fact, nearly half of cataract patients (43-46%) reportedly struggle to drive before surgery[1], according to research by leading NHS ophthalmology services provider, SpaMedica.
The incident meant Doug, a chief financial officer, lost confidence in his ability to drive. As a result, he worked from home more, which left him feeling increasingly isolated.
Cataracts also had wider effects on Doug’s health, he explains: “For the first time in my life, I started to have issues with migraines. There were big challenges with light sensitivity and, as the work day wore on I’d have to take breaks from my computer. Fundamentally, it became really difficult for me to do my job.”
Doug’s hobbies and passions were also impaired.
“We have two horses, and I love to ride. The gradual deterioration wasn’t noticeable at first, but blurred vision and lack of clarity was quite impactful, especially going into a jump.
“Attending live concerts was a problem too, I found I missed out on the full experience because it was hard to see the visuals.
“My sensitivity to light meant I didn’t feel comfortable travelling. We normally love to travel but me and my wife, Annie, couldn’t go on holiday last year.”
Doug had natural concerns when he found out he would be having cataract surgery, worrying that it would be a major, time-consuming procedure. He says: “The reassurance I got all the way through from the SpaMedica team in Sale really put me at ease. I chose SpaMedica on recommendation from my optician – treatment was a very straightforward process and referral was quick.”
After the surgery, Doug immediately noticed a fresh clarity of vision and colours were sharper. He explains how the treatment hasn’t just restored his eyesight: “It’s really given me my liberty and freedom back. Especially living in a rural setting, being able to drive has allowed me to reconnect with my colleagues on a more regular basis and I’m able to go out on my horse confidently and on my own. We’ve even managed to get away on a holiday to Greece, and we have lots of travel plans ahead.
“My advice to anyone putting off cataract treatment is don’t wait until it impacts your life or puts you in danger. For me, a driving incident was the wake-up call that something needed to be done. It’s very straightforward and the benefits are massive.”
Dr Alexander Silvester, Chief Medical Officer at SpaMedica, said: “It’s always encouraging to hear from patients like Doug who are doing so well after surgery, particularly hearing how he has regained his freedom as well as enjoying improved vision.
“Doug’s story is also an important reminder to make sure your eyes are roadworthy.
“We know that nearly half of cataract patients struggle to drive before surgery but 98% of SpaMedica patients regain driving standard vision after cataract treatment. This Road Safety Week I want to encourage anyone with concerns about their vision to visit their local optometrist for a check-up, to ensure any issues are investigated and treated as soon as possible.”
