Choosing the right sunglasses for low vision
For people with sight loss, choosing the right pair of sunglasses is crucial. Good sunglasses not only protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, but they can also help to limit glare. Read on to find out what to keep in mind when choosing your next pair.
Why UV protection matters
UV rays from sunlight can harm your eyes over time. UVA and UVB rays are especially damaging and without proper protection they can lead to:
A painful sunburn of the cornea, often caused by high-altitude exposure.
Clouding of the eye’s lens, leading to blurred vision and requiring surgery.
Age-related macular degeneration damages the retina’s central area, affecting detailed vision.
Basal and squamous cell carcinomas can develop on the eyelids requiring early treatment.
"It’s important for everyone to protect their eyes from UV damage, but especially those with specific eye conditions."
Choosing the right sunglasses
When it comes to choosing the right sunglasses, people with sight loss should consider the following factors:
The CE or UV400 mark on the frame means that the sunglasses have UV protection.
Dark lenses reduce brightness but don’t guarantee UV protection.
Sunglasses that fit over prescription glasses can offer added protection from glare, as can wrap around glasses.
When participating in sports, like skiing, for example, ensure the correct sunglasses are used to limit glare. There may be the option to have clip on lenses on to glasses which have UV protection.
After eye surgery, such as cataract surgery, sunglasses or shades may be advised to protect eyes from the sun as they are more sensitive after surgery. This will also limit irritation from wind, dust and pollen.
Whenever getting new sunglasses, it’s always worth talking to your optician, Low Vision Aid Clinic or Vision Rehabilitation Specialist, to ensure tailored advice and support.
"The darkness of your sunglasses lenses has nothing to do with UV protection — it only helps to reduce the brightness of light that reaches your eyes."
Special considerations
People with conditions like photophobia, cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration or retinitis pigmentosa, may be especially sensitive to sunlight, glare and reflections and benefit greatly from UV-protective eyewear.
Top tips
Think about your routines and how you adapt in different lighting situations. You may need a couple of different pairs of filters or sunglasses depending on activities or time of year.
Choose well-fitting frames with good coverage from the sides and top, to limit glare and reflections.
Consider photochromic lenses if you move between indoor and outdoor environments often as these adjust to the changes in lightening gradually.
AI and sunglasses
As technology continues to advance, there are glasses that can be customised with lenses and filters that have AI features. These do not replace the requirement for other mobility aids, like long canes.
Smart features:
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Bone conduction audio
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AI-powered cameras
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GPS and obstacle detection
Need help choosing?
Visit your optician or speak to your Low Vision Aid Clinic or Vision Rehabilitation Specialist.
For Blind Veterans UK beneficiaries, please contact your community teams or the Member Support Hub.
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