IT is estimated that 315 million people, mostly in developing communities, are blind or vision impaired simply because they don’t have access to a basic eye examination and a simple pair of glasses.
Recent studies estimate that at least 10% of the South African population (ages 15-42) have some sort of refractive error. The elderly women and children are disproportionately affected. For some it is an access problem, but many cannot afford it. The Right to Sight programme, under the auspices of the South African Optometric Association (011-805-4517) aims to assist these people.
On World Sight Day (14 October), participating local optometrists who are members of SAOA will be conducting free eye exams.
Should glasses be required, the new frame (limited range) and clear lense (no tint) will be provided at a budget price.
