Clearer Vision: Understanding Cataracts and Your Eye Health

What exactly is a cataract?

Think of the lens inside your eye like a window. In earlier life, that window has had its spring clean and is crystal clear. As we age, proteins in the lens can begin to clump together, introducing a few cloudy marks to the window. This cloudiness is a cataract. It doesn't happen overnight; it’s a gradual process that can make colours look faded or driving at night feel like more of a challenge.

Myth: Cataracts only happen to the elderly

Fact: While it is true that cataracts become more common as we get older, the changes in our eyes often begin in our 40s and 50s. Factors like UV exposure, smoking, diabetes and certain medications can speed up the process. It’s why regular eye checks are so important as we hit middle age.

“Cataracts and other eye health conditions can begin long before we notice and not just because of age, making prevention, regular checkups and monitoring important”, Sam says.

Myth: Cataract surgery is a long and painful process

Fact: Cataract surgery is one of the most common and successful procedures performed worldwide. It’s typically a quick, day-surgery using local anaesthetic, and most people are back to their normal routines within a few days.

“In Australia, cataract surgery is a routine, highly successful procedure that restores vision quickly, safely, and has minimal recovery time”, Sam says.

Myth: There’s nothing I can do to prevent cataracts

Fact: While aging is the main factor, you can absolutely help protect your eyes. Wearing high-quality sunglasses that block UV rays is essential, especially in our harsh South Australian sun. A carefully selected diet rich in leafy greens and antioxidants also supports long-term eye health. Avoiding smoking, managing chronic conditions like diabetes, and understanding the effects of certain medications can all help reduce this risk of developing cataract too.

“Cataracts typically develop with age, but lifestyle habits such as protecting the eyes from UV rays, eating nutrient rich foods and avoiding smoking can help slow their progression”, Sam says.

Helping you see clearly

We’ve had South Aussies’ backs (and eyes, and teeth) for over 85 years. We’re committed to helping you stay ahead of the game when it comes to your health. Our local Optical stores are staffed by experts (like Sam, at Goodwood!) who are ready to help you manage your eye health at every stage of life.

Member benefits for healthy eyes

• Save on protection: Our members get 30% off sunglasses every day - perfect for keeping those UV rays at bay.
• Local care: From Mt Barker and Morphett Vale to Modbury, our local optical hubs provide expert care closer to home.
• Regular checks: Use your extras cover for regular eye examinations to identify eye changes early.

Ready to check in on your vision? Give us a call on 1300 115 115 or book an appointment online at healthpartners.com.au.

Health Partners doesn’t cover any consultation fees that may be associated with the services mentioned in this article. The information contained here is of a general nature and does not take into account your personal medical situation. The information is not a substitute for independent professional medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or used for therapeutic purposes. Should you require specific medical information, please seek advice from your healthcare practitioner. Health Partners does not accept any liability for any injury, loss or damage incurred by use of or reliance on the information provided. While we have prepared the information carefully, we can't guarantee that it is accurate, complete or up-to-date. And while we may mention goods or services provided by others, we aren't specifically endorsing them and can't accept responsibility for them.