Philip Walsh - Conditions that affect driving

There are several different conditions that can potentially affect your vision; such as age-related changes, cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration.

As you age, the incidence of conditions that could affect your peripheral vision increases but could also be symptomatic of other vision conditions such as cataracts or macular degeneration.

Around four in ten New Zealanders require prescription glasses for driving and are obligated to wear glasses, but despite this, there are still over 40 percent of New Zealanders who have experienced vision difficulties while behind the wheel.

It is important to book in regular visits to your optometrist every two years to monitor your eye health, so you can remain safe on the road. The right treatment will help to preserve your vision and ensure you’re safe while you are behind the wheel.

If you are an AA member, you are also entitled to a free eye exam once every two years.

For more information on eye health conditions that could affect your driving, talk to your local Specsavers optometrist or visit www.specsavers.co.nz.

About Philip 

Philip is an experienced optometrist with a Bachelor of Optometry from Auckland University. He’s worked in the UK, Zimbabwe and is now the Optometrist Director at the Specsavers New Lynn store in Auckland, one of 52 Specsavers stores across the country. 

Improving access for all Kiwis to high-quality eye care and eyewear is Philip’s passion. What he loves about his role at Specsavers is providing all his patients with excellent customer service and professional eye care with the latest technology and knowledgeable well-trained staff. 

www.specsavers.co.nz