Cataracts

Cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision loss in Australia and worldwide. They occur when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, causing vision to gradually blur or dim. Most people with cataracts are over 60, but the condition can develop at any age, and in some cases is present from birth.

The good news is that cataracts are highly treatable. Surgery to replace the cloudy lens is a commonly performed operation, and understanding the symptoms early and seeking the right support can make a significant difference to quality of life.

Cataracts form when proteins in the eye’s natural lens begin to break down and clump together, causing the lens to cloud over. In most cases this happens gradually as part of the ageing process, but several other factors can accelerate or contribute to their development.

Age-related cataracts are the most common type, developing slowly as the lens loses flexibility and clarity over time. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, more than 70% of Australians aged 80 or over have the condition.¹ Most people will develop some degree of age-related cataract over their lifetime.

Congenital cataracts are present at birth or develop in early childhood. They may result from genetic factors, infection during pregnancy, or metabolic conditions. Early detection and prompt treatment are critical to prevent long-term vision impairment in children.

Other contributing factors include diabetes, prolonged use of corticosteroid medications, previous eye injury or surgery, and extended exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light without eye protection. Smoking has also been associated with an increased risk. In Australia, an estimated 2.7 million people over 50 are projected to have clinically significant cataracts.²

Cataract vision is often described as looking through a foggy or frosted window. Everyday tasks like reading and driving can become harder. Because cataracts typically develop gradually in both eyes (though often at different rates), some people adapt slowly without realising how much their vision has changed.

Common signs of cataracts include:

Blurred or cloudy vision – images appear hazy, foggy or less sharp than usual, even with corrective lenses.

Difficulty with glare and bright light – headlights, sunlight or bright indoor lighting may appear dazzling or uncomfortable, making night driving difficult.

Fading or yellowing of colours – colours may appear less vivid, washed out or with a yellowish tint.

Increased short-sightedness – in the early stages, some people find their near vision temporarily improves before overall vision deteriorates as the cataract progresses.

Double vision – seeing two of a single object, particularly noticeable in one eye, can be an early indicator of a developing cataract.

Seeing halos around lights – bright circles or rings around light sources, especially at night, are a common symptom as the cataract scatters incoming light.

If you notice any of these signs, speak to your GP or pediatrician. Guide Dogs Australia’s services are also available from the point of diagnosis.

Cataracts treatment can often involve surgery, and is one of the most common elective procedures performed in Australia.³ It involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). Recovery is generally quick, with most people noticing improved vision within days.

Guide Dogs Australia offers a range of services for people living with low vision caused by cataracts or other conditions, including:

• Orientation and mobility training – building the confidence and skills to move safely and independently while awaiting or recovering from cataract surgery.
• Assistive technology support – screen magnification, audio tools and low vision aids to help with everyday tasks.
• Early childhood services – for families of young children, helping to set strong foundations from the start.
• Psychology and counselling – for those adjusting to vision changes or managing the emotional impact of reduced sight.
• Peer support – connecting with others who understand the experience of living with vision impairment firsthand.

Preventing eye cataracts may not always be possible, but protecting your eyes from excessive UV light, maintaining good overall health, avoiding smoking and having regular eye examinations can help slow progression. If surgery is recommended, it is worth discussing the range of IOL options with your ophthalmologist, as different lenses suit different needs and lifestyles.

With timely treatment and the right support, most people regain excellent vision. Guide Dogs Australia is here to help at every stage of that journey.

¹Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Cataract in nearly one-third of older Australians. AIHW, 2005. Available at: https://www.aihw.gov.au/news-media/media-releases/2005/jul/cataract-in-nearly-one-third-of-older-australians

²Rochtchina E, et al. Projected prevalence of age-related cataract and cataract surgery in Australia for the years 2001 and 2021: pooled data from two population-based surveys. Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology, 2003;31(3):233–236. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12786774/

³Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Elective surgery. AIHW, 2023. Available at: https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports-data/myhospitals/sectors/elective-surgery