Introduction

Definition of cataract

A cataract is a common eye condition that is primarily associated with ageing. It is characterised by cloudy patches on your eye that affect your vision. Cataracts occur when the natural lens of your eye becomes cloudy due to the deterioration of proteins. This cloudiness can make your vision appear blurry, hazy, or less colourful than it should be. The condition gradually progresses over time, eventually causing blindness.^1,2 

Prevalence of cataract

Cataracts are one of the primary causes of blindness around the world. Approximately 36 million people in the world are blind, with cataracts accounting for roughly 12 million of those cases. Their prevalence rises significantly with age, increasing from 3.9% in those aged 55 to 64 years to 92.6% in individuals aged 80 and older. In 2010, approximately 10.8 million people were blind from cataracts, and this figure is expected to rise to 40 million by 2025 as the ageing global population and life expectancy increase. Moreover, paediatric cataracts are a major cause of treatable blindness in children, with an estimated prevalence of one to six cases per 10,000 live births.^3,4

Importance of addressing emotional effects

Cataract issues are quite concerning, particularly because they are linked to visual impairment, which can have significant implications for mental well-being, including increased anxiety and depression. It is important to address the emotional effects of cataracts, as vision impairment can have a great impact on your quality of life. Emotional challenges such as frustration, anxiety, and feelings of isolation often arise from vision changes, affecting mental health and social interactions. Once patients are diagnosed with cataracts, a lack of communication and information can intensify feelings of uncertainty that lead to unfamiliarity, ambiguity, doubt, and unpredictability. This uncertainty is a common aspect of chronic illnesses and it is linked closely to the psychological well-being of patients. Recognising these emotional aspects can encourage you to seek treatment and support, enabling you to develop effective coping strategies and thrive.⁵

Impacts of cataract

Physical symptoms

In the early stage, most people do not notice any changes in their vision. Cataracts usually impair your vision slowly. Symptoms could be slightly different for each person and may include: 

1. Clouded, blurry or hazy vision
2. Double vision (usually in one eye)
3. Problems seeing at night
4. Difficulties with colour vision. It may appear dimmed, altered, or more yellowish
5. Sensitivity to light, which causes a glare or halo
6. Increased near-sightedness, and it often needs frequent changes to adjust your eyeglass prescriptions^2,6,7

Emotional challenges

Studies indicate that cataracts are often associated with anxiety and depression. Poor vision can often lead to worsening mental health, which can create problems in everyday life. Individuals with visual impairments may find it increasingly challenging to perform everyday activities and work. They may feel isolated, and lose interest in activities that they once enjoyed. Depression affects 1 in 3 people who lose their vision, and is a leading cause of ill health and disability worldwide.^5,8

Coping strategies

Living with cataracts may require the implementation of coping strategies and the utilisation of local support systems or resources. Here are some examples of effective coping strategies you may implement while dealing with cataracts:⁹

Acknowledge and understand your emotions

Dealing with the physical aspects of cataracts can be vital as part of coping strategies with the condition. Here are some things that might help you:

• Write a journal about how you feel. This might help you process what is happening to you and serve as a medium to express your emotions
• Share your feelings with your friends and family. You can connect with others who have a similar condition by finding a support group locally or online. By expressing your concerns, you may feel less isolated and more understood
• Educate yourself about your illness. Learn more about cataracts by finding information in your local library or online. Knowing and understanding the process and outcome of your illness can better prepare you to deal with the emotional aftermaths of your condition
• Focus on things that you can manage. Try to make lifestyle adjustments so that it can help you to alleviate feelings of helplessness
• Engage in activities you enjoy. Trying to find joy in hobbies or activities can provide a positive distraction and improve your overall mood

Seeking professional help

Professional help from a therapist, counsellor, or psychologist is important for coping with the emotional effects of cataracts. A therapist can help you to process your feelings of frustration, anxiety, or sadness that are related to the loss of vision. It will not only manage potential anxiety and depression but also improve your overall quality of life by helping you maintain your independence and find new ways to engage with your environment. Professional help can be a valuable resource to guide your emotional journey as your vision changes, making sure you have the tools and support you need to thrive.

If a patient has a caregiver, therapy can also provide support for them, helping to manage their emotional challenges while assisting someone with cataracts. Organisations such as Retina UK or the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) provide support for cataract patients and their families by offering information, advice, and emotional support. If you have any questions, you may contact them on their free telephone line, via email, or by completing forms.

Daily life adjustment

Here are a few manageable lifestyle changes that you can implement to help you cope with cataracts:

• Improve or use more brighter lighting at home
• Stronger prescription glasses
• Wear anti-glare sunglasses
• Visual aids like magnifying lenses for reading and other activities can make a significant difference. Screen magnification apps are also available to download or purchase from platforms like Windows, Android and iOS
• For reading, you may also check the Talking Book Service. This should make reading more enjoyable and less tiring for you. There is also a Newsagent Service that provides newspapers and magazines in accessible formats
• Inform your family and friends if you notice any trip hazards around your house that could potentially cause accidents, such as falls or trips. You can ask them to place clear signs or marks to make these hazards easily visible. It is also important to remind them to warn you if they move any furniture around
• If you find it challenging to manage daily activities on your own, it may be time to ask your family or friends for assistance. While it can be difficult to cope with the loss of independence, those who love you genuinely want to help. Accepting support and acknowledging your limitations is a sign of strength – not weakness
• Avoid or limit your driving at night time. As your condition progresses, you may find it hard to see road signs clearly and it can be a safety hazard for yourself and other road users

Summary

Importance of emotional health

Accepting your diagnosis and acknowledging your emotions can be challenging. Hence, during this difficult time, it is essential to prioritise your emotional health. A cataract diagnosis can change your life significantly. As the condition progresses, you gradually lose your sight, making surgery increasingly necessary. Often, the condition leads to anxiety and depression, making you feel helpless and isolated. Recognising and processing your feelings, whether it is fear, frustration, or sadness, can help you cope with the changes. Engaging with support networks, whether through family, friends, or professional counselling, can provide a meaningful way to express your emotions. By taking care of your emotional well-being, you can develop better mechanisms to cope with the challenges of living with cataracts and maintain a positive outlook on your journey.

Encouragement to seek support for a better quality of life

During this period of time, support from your family, friends and loved ones is crucial. Their encouragement can help you feel less isolated and more connected as you navigate the challenges of living with cataracts. Do not hesitate to reach out to them to share your feelings and experiences. Additionally, seeking help from professionals, counsellors or support groups can provide comfort and emotional support. By acknowledging this support network, you can improve your quality of life, build your inner strength, and better manage the emotional aspects of your condition.