The Eyes Have It

Posted February 4, 2008, 2:54 pm in Disabilities by Growing Bolder


Are you squinting a bit more than you used to? For many of us, failing eyesight just seems to be a fact of life as the years go by. But for millions of Americans, the situation is much more serious than keeping your reading glasses handy at all times.

That's why the public service arm of the Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology is working so hard to combat preventable blindness.

During the month of February, EyeCare America is offering free eye exams to people 65 and older. Between now and March 1, you can call 800-222-EYES (3937) to see if you or a loved one qualifies for the free exam and up to one year of free medical care. The phone line is staffed 24 hours a day.

The program is designed to help those without insurance or an ophthalmologist.

"Blindness and vision impairment have enormous personal, social and economic costs, limiting the activities of otherwise healthy and active people," said Richard P. Mills, M.D.

EyeCare America says by age 65, one in three Americans has some form of vision-impairing eye disease. Many wrongly assume their eyes are just "getting older" and poor vision is unavoidable.

But early detection and treatment could be your best chance of preserving your eyesight.

So, give the number a call and see if you're eligible for the assistance. After all, we need readers like you to stick around on GrowingBolder.com!

Even if your sight is failing, it doesn't mean it has to stop you from doing the things you love. Growing Bolder has profiled many people who are still loving life and staying active, despite the new challenges they are facing. To get inspired, check out some of their stories below:

• José Feliciano has 16 Grammy nominations, six wins and 45 gold and platinum records. Not bad for a boy born blind to very humble beginnings in Puerto Rico. Click here to listen to our conversation with the legendary performer.
  
• 20 years ago, macular degeneration robbed Esther Medley of her vision but not her competitive spirit. She recently bowled a 244, the highest score in her league. Click here to find out how and why she keeps on competing.
  
• Hitting a hole in one is difficult enough. Now imagine trying to do it blind. That's exactly what Dortha King recently accomplished, and she says it's just one more reason to keep playing her favorite game. Click here to find out why giving up golf never crossed her mind, even after she lost her vision.
  

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