EYE CARE FOR OLDER PEOPLE

That this House recognises that with an ageing population sight loss will become a major public health issue; acknowledges that sight is the sense that people fear losing the most yet many people neglect their eye health; notes that four million older people are not accessing eye tests when everyone over 60 is entitled to a free NHS sight test; welcomes the recent consultation launch of the VISION 2020 UK Vision Strategy which sets out a framework for action to improve the nation's eye health, prevent sight loss and ensure support for those with sight loss; and notes that good eye health and vision is essential to help older people live in their own homes for longer, maintain their independence and reduce the incidence of accidents such as falls.