Cataracts? Get info on treatment from Prevent Blindness and Eye Care America

Did you know that cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss among adults 55 and older? In fact, more than half the people over age 65 have some form of cataract development. What is a cataract? A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye, the part of the eye that focuses light and produces clear images. Inside of the eye, the lens is contained in a sealed bag or capsule. As old cells die they become trapped within the capsule. Over time, more cells die and accumulate, causing the lens to cloud, making images look blurred or fuzzy. For most people, cataracts are a natural result of aging. Eye injuries, certain medications, UV exposure and diseases such as diabetes and alcoholism have also been known to cause cataracts. Cataract surgery is the most frequently performed surgery in the United States. More than 90 percent of the people who have cataract surgery regain useful vision. "The good news is that cataract can be effectively treated and vision restored by an eye surgeon (ophthalmologist)."said Hugh R. Parry, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness America Find out more, and get treated! Prevent Blindness America offers the public free information on cataracts in both English and Spanish at (800) 331-2020, or at preventblindness.org. It also offers information on Medicare benefits in relation to cataract surgery and care as well as a guide on what patients can expect if surgery is required. EyeCare America provides the Seniors EyeCare Program which offers eye exams and care to seniors who are without an ophthalmologist (a medical eye doctor). Those who are eligible receive a dilated medical exam and up to one year of treatment at no out-of-pocket cost. EyeCare America is able to provide this no cost care through its network of volunteer ophthalmologists who waive patient co-payments and accept Medicare as payment in full. Patients without insurance are not charged. EyeCare America's Seniors EyeCare Program is designed for people who: • Are U.S. citizens or legal residents • Are age 65 and older • Have not seen an ophthalmologist in three or more years • Do not belong to an HMO or the VA For a Seniors EyeCare Program referral, call the toll-free help line 1.800.222.EYES (3937). The help line operates 24/7 The Seniors EyeCare Program is co-sponsored by the Knights Templar Eye Foundation, Inc. and Alcon.