When you have questions about vision care, a number of non-profit and government organizations can help you see things a bit more clearly.
Vision diseases and issues can alter our quality of life on many levels. For where to go, who to ask or what to do when it comes good vision care, check these six organizations: • The National Eye Institute The National Eye Institute falls under the umbrella of the federal government’s National Institute of Health. Its mission is to “conduct and support research, training, health information dissemination and other programs with respect to blinding eye diseases, visual disorders, mechanisms of visual function, preservation of sight, and the special health problems and requirements of the blind.” The NEI website (www.nei.nih.gov) contains information regarding vision and vision health, including a list of eye diseases as well as information on various educational programs. It’s a great starting point for vision and eyesight questions and concerns. • The American Optometric Association While the AOA represents optometrists and related professions and paraprofessionals, the organization also does a tremendous job reaching out to the general public regarding eye health and care. Visit www.aoa.org for more. • The American Academy of Ophthalmology The AAO is the largest membership association for medical and osteopathic doctors who provide a number of eye-care and vision services. You can learn about eye health at every age and check what your symptoms might mean. The website (www.aao.org) includes tips about preserving your vision and tests and treatments you should be discussing with your ophthalmologist. • Helen Keller International Founded in 1915, this organization has been at the forefront of saving people’s sight and even their lives since its creation. Its mission centers on preventing blindness among the most vulnerable people around the world, and it offers multiple programs, including ChildSight. Go to www.hki.org to learn more. • Prevent Blindness The mission of Prevent Blindness, which was founded in 1908, is simple: “to prevent blindness and preserve sight.” To do that, the organization screens children and adults, educates communities, advocates to improve health policies, supports vision research and trains vision screeners. You can learn more at www.preventblindness.org. The organization offers ideas and tips for protecting and preserving your vision as well. • Macular Degeneration Association Aside from its work related to macular degeneration, this organization provides research, information and advocacy for patients with any visual disease. The association funds research and education programs regarding a list of visual diseases. Through its website (www.macularhope.org) you can learn a number of ways to protect your vision.
