Do you know menopause may affect eye health? Most women are aware that menopause can affect mood and sleep, but fewer recognise that the transition may also be associated with changes in eye health, according to a new survey commissioned by Johnson & Johnson.
The global survey of 6,000 women found that only 40% associate eye and vision changes with the menopause transition, despite 90% saying that seeing clearly and comfortably helps them feel confident, capable or like themselves.
Conducted across the United States, United Kingdom, Brazil, South Korea, Japan and China, the survey highlights a gap between women’s broader midlife health routines and attention to eye health.
While 75% of women surveyed said they had taken action to manage changes associated with midlife, only 18% reported having an annual eye examination as part of their routine.
The survey found that 66% of respondents had experienced dry, gritty or irritated eyes, while 60% had experienced blurred vision. However, only 18% had discussed these changes with an eye care professional.
Among women who had not sought professional help for vision changes, 31% said they had used a phone flashlight to read a menu or relied on other workarounds, such as enlarging text or holding reading material farther away.
“Too many women are simply adapting to midlife vision changes without realising there are solutions available,” said Dr Charissa Lee, Head of Professional Affairs, Vision, Johnson & Johnson.
“By making eye health part of the menopause conversation, we can help women find the options that support clear, comfortable vision and everyday confidence,” she added.
Johnson & Johnson noted that midlife vision changes can happen at the same time as the menopause transition and symptoms may include dry or irritated eyes, blurry near vision, headaches, or needing to hold reading material farther away.
The company noted that a comprehensive eye exam can help identify changes in vision and eye health and determine which options may be appropriate based on an individual’s needs and lifestyle. These may include multifocal contact lenses.
Menopause Awareness
During Menopause Awareness Month, Johnson & Johnson is continuing its collaboration with Academy Award–nominated actress, entrepreneur and menopause advocate, Naomi Watts.
Watts will continue sharing her eye health journey and encouraging women to include vision care as part of their midlife wellness routine.
“We’re talking more openly about menopause, but eye health is still too often left out,” said Naomi Watts, founder of Stripes Beauty.
“I want women to know they don’t have to quietly work around changes like dry eyes or blurry vision. An eye exam is a simple step that can help them understand their eye health options and feel more in control,” she added.
The American Optometric Association (AOA) is also supporting the initiative, encouraging women to recognise eye and vision changes and discuss them with an eye care professional.
“Eye and vision health needs to be part of the broader health conversation as women navigate menopause,” said AOA President Teri K. Geist.
“A comprehensive eye exam and an open dialogue with your doctor of optometry can help women understand the changes they may be experiencing, identify eye health concerns they may not notice on their own and get the care they need to see and feel their best,” Geist added.
