Dementia Action Week 19-25 May – Opticians Evolution for an Increasing Ageing Population

Following on from Dementia Action Week by Alzheimer’s society the OCCS have looked at how the Optical Sector are looking to address the increasing aged-population’s access to optical services, without impacting the level of service received.

Practices’ are aware of the importance of providing eyecare to protect the wellbeing and quality of life, especially for the older generation. The World Health Organization (WHO) quote that “By 2030, 1 in 6 people in the world will be aged 60 years or over… By 2050, the world’s population of people aged 60 years and older will double (2.1 billion).” With this comes the increase in the number of age-related health conditions that can impact an individuals access to optical care and need to do so.

With a growing older population the demand for eye care service will increase

The College of Optometrist are exploring the impact of this on the optical sector by launching a series of articles about the ageing population and the implications for eye health in the UK.

https://www.college-optometrists.org/professional-development/college-journals/acuity/all-issues/autumn-2022/managing-eye-health-of-older-population

A way both consumers and practices’ may best equip themselves to approach ongoing optical care, when faced with Dementia, is the Alzheimer’s society available initiative: Dementia Friends.

It’s aim is to change perceptions of Dementia and to transform how we approach and think about the condition.

They issued some tips on how to approach a sight test when dealing with dementia; such as

• Making the practice aware of your condition
• Have someone accompanying you to the appointment
• Aim to attend when most relaxed/best time of day/environment
  (Consider an appointment at home (domiciliary sight test) if entitled and available)

Domiciliary sight test availability – for those who are unable to attend a practice for a sight test, there are now opportunities to be visited and tested at home.

To search for availability and entitlement you may wish to discuss this with your GP or search local NHS website.

As well as individual training courses; Dementia Friends also has support for organisations to become ‘Dementia Friends Ambassadors’ by offering training how they may adapt their processes to support those with the condition.

If you wish to become a Dementia Friend, please visit their website here.