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Vision impairment is a major contributor to falls, reduced mobility, and social isolation among older Australians, yet many age-related eye conditions are preventable or treatable with timely interventions.

Professor Lisa Keay, a leading researcher in vision and eye health at the University of New South Wales (�鶹��madou) and a member of the �鶹��madou Ageing Futures Institute, authors the editorial emphasising that vision loss should not be accepted as an inevitable part of ageing.

“We now know that untreated vision loss can increase the risk of dementia and falls in later life. With good eye health, people can live independently for longer, remain socially connected, and reduce their risk of injury as they age,” says Professor Keay.

Professor Keay also calls for coordinated national approaches to support maintaining good vision across the lifespan – advocating for eye health to be prioritised alongside other key aspects of healthy ageing, such as heart health and diabetes prevention.

“Eye care must be embedded into routine health checks. By detecting and treating vision issues early, we can prevent avoidable disability and potentially enhance productivity in ageing societies across the world.”

“As Australia prepares for an ageing population, ensuring good vision must be part of a broader national strategy to support optimal ageing for individuals and society.”

Read the full editorial .