studying ways to treat cataracts.
They’ve identified a
chemical that could potentially
be used in eye drops to reverse
cataracts.
“Cataracts are the number
one cause of blindness
worldwide,” Araj says. “If you
live long enough, you will get
them. New methods of detection
and treatment can impact
people everywhere.”
Improving “Sight”
New technologies may also
help people with low vision
and blindness get around more
easily in their day-to-day lives.
For example, an NIH-funded
eye doctor recently improved
a miniature telescope technology
that can be mounted on regular
eyeglasses. Called Ocutech
bioptic telescopes, these devices
help people with low vision see
better while driving. This gives
them the chance to stay behind
the wheel.
Another scientist developed
a partially robotic cane that can
detect a person’s surroundings.
The cane has a camera to “see”
what’s nearby. The motorized
roller tip then moves the cane
toward a desired location, acting
as a guide for the person to
follow.
Sound can also act as a
guide for those with low vision.
A new smartphone app gives
sound prompts to help visually
impaired people identify the
safest crossing location and stay
within a crosswalk.
These and other new technologies
are helping people
with vision problems. But
Bishop says, “While technologies
can help keep your eyes
healthy, there’s a lot you can
do, too.”
Simple actions can go a
long way to protect your eye
health. These include not
smoking, eating a healthy diet
(especially dark leafy greens
like spinach or kale), and maintaining
a healthy weight. Also,
know your family’s eye health
problems. Certain diseases can
run in families. And make sure
to wear sunglasses to block
harmful sun rays and protective
eyewear for activities like
sports and home improvement
projects.
Don’t forget to get a regular
eye exam to catch issues early. If
your eye care professional finds
a problem early, often there are
things you can do to keep your
good vision.
“An ounce of prevention is
worth a pound of cure,” Araj
says.
Healthy Living | Spring Issue | 2018 25
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