Local Opticians and Sight Care on a myth busting mission to encourage contact lens wear - February 2014
Andy Molsom in Spalding, along with over 600 other independent opticians across the UK, who are part of the Sight Care network, are joining together to encourage more patients to consider contact lenses after research identified that 8 out of 10 people who wear glasses have never tried contact lenses.
Contact lenses are a convenient option for vision correction, yet if opticians do not actively suggest them, many patients believe that they are not suitable for contact lenses.
Several myths about contact lenses may also keep first time wearers from experiencing the benefits. For example, a common myth is that teenagers can't wear contact lenses however children as young as eight enjoy the benefits and freedom they can bring.
Paul Surridge, CEO of Sight Care, a not for profit support network for independent opticians, said: "Many people don't believe they are suitable for contact lenses because their optician has never suggested them. However with so many product improvements in comfort and design in recent years, just about anyone can wear them."
To combat the myths and reservations patients may have about contact lenses, Sight Care, in collaboration with sponsor Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, has identified the top most common myths associated with them. These include fears of contact lenses getting lost behind the eye and that those with astigmatism are unable to wear them. Neither is in fact true.
Andy Molsom, owner of Molsom & Associates Optometrists said: "Despite the myths that surround them, the truth about contact lenses is that they can have numerous advantages and dispelling the myths behind some of the most common concerns may leave patients realising they are eligible for them.
"Molsom & Associates Optometrists are ideal for cautious patients with our staff learning about every family member's lifestyle so whether you want a new look or the freedom to be more active, they can properly advise if contact lenses might change your life."
Marcella McParland, Director Professional Affairs UK & Ireland, Johnson & Johnson Medical Ltd, said: "We are very pleased to be partnering with Sight Care on this great initiative to help educate patients on the benefits that contact lenses can offer.
It is really important for us to provide customers with all the tools possible to make the transition from glasses to contacts an easier and more comfortable experience for first time contact lens wearers. Our recently launched free LENSPALT app is designed to do exactly that. Featuring handy tips, videos and reminders, the app can be downloaded via the Apple App Store or Google Play."