Throughout the year, global awareness days remind us to prioritise different aspects of our health, from World Heart Day to Mental Health Week. These important moments encourage conversations that might otherwise be overlooked. That's why we're launching our 'Care Conversations' series at Five Good Friends.
As you get older, having open discussions about your health becomes increasingly vital to staying independent and confident in the home and community you love.
This month, we're focusing on a topic that affects many people: vision health. 👀
Our eyesight shapes how we experience the world, from recognising a loved one’s smile to reading a favourite book or safely crossing the street. Yet vision changes are a common health challenge facing Australians over 65, often developing gradually and going unnoticed until they significantly impact daily life.
Why this matters
When vision changes aren't noticed early, they can affect safety, independence, confidence, and everyday activities such as moving around the home, reading, or recognising faces. Identifying changes early allows support to be put in place sooner.
Understanding vision changes
Vision changes refer to difficulties with seeing clearly, noticing contrast, depth, or movement, or changes in how the eyes respond to light. Vision changes can affect one or both eyes and may vary from mild to more noticeable. They don't always mean complete loss of vision.
What’s happening as you age?
As you age, the risk of conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease increases. Many of these conditions develop slowly and without pain. In fact, you may not notice changes until vision has already been affected. That’s why awareness matters.
What to look out for:
Difficulty reading, watching TV, or recognising faces
Trouble seeing steps, uneven surfaces, or changes in flooring
Bumping into furniture or doorways more often
Increased sensitivity to glare or bright lights
Difficulty seeing in low light or at night
Headaches, eye strain, or tired eyes
Feeling less confident moving around unfamiliar places
If you notice any of these symptoms, even mildly, it’s important to not delay seeking advice.
Actionable steps you can take today:
Schedule regular eye checks
Even without symptoms, a comprehensive eye exam every 1–2 years (or as recommended by your GP or optometrist) can detect early changes before they affect your independence.Manage chronic conditions
Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can directly impact eye health. Staying on top of these doesn’t just protect your heart, it also protects your sight.Keep your house free from clutter
Identify and remove possible tripping hazards and keep walkways clear and free of clutter.Support eye health through lifestyle
A balanced diet rich in leafy greens, omega-3 fatty acids, and colourful vegetables supports eye health. Staying physically active and not smoking also significantly reduces risk.Prioritise lighting and home safety
Good lighting reduces strain and lowers the risk of falls, especially in hallways, staircases, and bathrooms. You can also reduce glare by using curtains, blinds, or lampshades.
Start the conversation
Talking about vision changes early can help prevent falls and make your daily activities safer and more comfortable. Rather than just waiting for your next appointment, reach out to your care team if you've noticed any changes, however small.
You might also consider:
Letting your Helper know if you're finding it harder to see
Sharing what helps you see better (for example, brighter lighting)
Asking for support if vision changes are affecting your safety or confidence
Where to get help
Support may include optometrists, GPs, ophthalmologists, community vision services, and low-vision supports such as magnifiers, lighting aids, or contrast-enhancing tools.
How Five Good Friends can support you
Your care team can help by discussing your concerns, arranging a nurse visit if appropriate, reviewing your current supports, and talking through assistive technology or home modifications to support your vision and safety.
How your Helper can support you
You can speak with your Helper about assisting you to:
Ensure lighting is adequate in the home
Keep pathways clear and remove trip hazards
Support safe movement around the home
Read labels, instructions, or mail if needed
Notice changes in your vision and share concerns with the care team
You don’t have to manage vision changes on your own.
Support is available, and early conversations can make a meaningful difference to your safety and independence.
Please reach out if vision changes are affecting your daily activities, mobility, or safety, or if you'd like to explore support options. Call 1300 787 581 or email [email protected].