Verum writes: An ageing population is good for optics

I am pleased to see that information from the Office of National Statistics tells me I am now definitely not alone, and in fact am in the majority, as the average age in the UK has risen above 40 for the first time. However I hasten to point out that I am not in the 18 per cent who are over 65.  Looking at the figures over past years the increase in average age and in particular the numbers of those over 65 is striking and of course will only increase over the coming years.

This is surely good news for the optical sector, whatever your area of interest, as an ageing population comes hand in hand with the need for visual correction.  Optical professionals will benefit as there will be more eye examinations to perform and more spectacles and contact lenses to dispense in turn benefitting those who supply the professions, whether it is frames, lenses or equipment. Age also brings with it an increase in ocular pathology, so for those who are wanting to expand their clinical horizons there will be more to diagnose and advise on as part of the eye examination, or in monitoring and treating in a community scheme.