A cataract is the clouding of the lens of the eye which is normally clear which reduces the amount of light being able to enter the eye, resulting in deteriorating vision. It is like the lens of a camera or the mirror in the bathroom becoming fogged up with steam. A cataract is not a film over the eye.
Symptoms and characteristics:
Vision loss from cataracts can be gradual on sudden. Symptoms may include:
- cloudy vision
- blurring of vision
- glare or light sensitivity
- poor night vision
- altered vision causing halos
- fading of colour perception
- double vision
- needing a brighter light to read.
Workplace adjustments and solutions:
In the workplace there are various factors that would assist people with cataracts to better manage their condition. These include changes to work tasks and the environment, and will vary depending upon the level of vision loss. Some suggestions for workplace modifications include:
- evaluation of workplace lighting to ensure it meets Australian standards with the addition of specific task lighting if required
- avoidance of glare though use of a hat or sunglasses or if inside, changing placement of workstation or the installation of blinds or curtains over windows
- regular eye rest breaks in which the eyes are closed
- consideration given to the use of adaptive technology in the workplace if vision loss is severe
- use of a larger screen to assist with viewing text, along with modification of contrast, screen verses text colours and brightness levels.
(MDA Internet 2005-2008; Better Health Channel 2007; Vision Australia 2008)
There are solutions and adjustments for the following job requirements:
References:
Better Health Channel 2007, Cataracts explained, State Government of Victoria, Melbourne, viewed 6 February 2009, http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Cataracts_explained?OpenDocument
MDA Internet 2005-2008, Cataracts, Reed Group Ltd, Colorado, viewed 6 February 2009, http://www.mdainternet.com (secure site)
Vision Australia 2008, Cataracts Fact Sheet, Vision Australia, Sydney, 6 February 2009, http://www.visionaustralia.org.au/info.aspx?page=610