Why Early Eye Care Matters: The Psychology of Vision Problems

Your vision plays a crucial part in how you experience the world around you.  The ability to recognize faces, work, drive, and move safely throughout your day contributes to your sense of control. Changes in vision, such as poor night vision, decreased peripheral vision, or problems reading, may affect your sense of control. 

If you develop vision issues, you may make changes without even realizing it at first. For example, you may stop reading, limit driving at night, or even skip activities you once enjoyed. Although these changes may seem small at first, over time they can shrink the world around you and negatively affect your overall quality of life. 

Getting regular eye care helps you feel a sense of control. Determining the cause of eye changes and learning ways to preserve vision in turn enable you to maintain autonomy. 
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One of the most significant effects of vision problems is the anxiety it can cause. Many eye diseases develop slowly without pain, but you may still notice subtle changes in your vision. 

Even minor vision changes can lead to anxiety because of the unknown.  You may wonder whether the condition will get worse or affect your ability to work or do everyday activities.  It’s also common for patients to wonder whether vision changes are related to aging or something more serious. 

Getting early comprehensive eye exams replaces the unknown with information. Understanding what vision changes are happening and why can be helpful. Gaining information does not change the condition, but once an eye disease is identified, you can develop a plan to reduce fear and help you regain a sense of stability.
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It’s probably no surprise that vision loss is strongly connected with an increased risk of emotional problems. A study published in JAMA Ophthalmology involved adults aged 65 and over who had vision impairment. The adults with vision problems had a significantly higher rate of anxiety, depression, and severe social isolation compared with adults without vision impairment. 

Problems with vision can make it more difficult to participate in hobbies and make social interactions more challenging. Over time, it’s common to isolate one’s self rather than to increase dependence on others. 

Getting early eye care can help prevent social isolation and the downward spiral that can develop with vision problems. Seeking treatment and developing ways to cope with vision problems early increases the likelihood that an individual will remain engaged, active, and socially involved.

Vision problems are not just about your eyes. They affect how you live, how you connect with others, and how you feel about yourself. Getting regular comprehensive eye exams and preventative care not only protects your eyesight, but it may also help reduce anxiety, preserve independence, and support overall emotional and social well-being.

If you would like to schedule an eye appointment with one of our eye doctor, please call our office at 508-746-8600.