A cataract is an eye condition that is a common result of aging. If you have a cataract, your vision is blocked due to the clouding and darkening of the lens in the eye. According to a recent study published in JAMA Ophthalmology, seniors who have smaller family support are less likely to get cataract surgery. It was shown that adult children have more influence than friends, spouses, or partners regarding an older person’s decision to have cataract surgery.
According to Dr. Brian C. Stagg, an ophthalmologist and study author, others may have not observed but the one who usually notices vision changes in a parent is an adult child. It will take some time for people to speak up about vision changes. An aging spouse or friends will not notice someone’s vision problems because they are focused on their health problems. An adult child who does not meet with their parents as often notices any vision changes immediately.
Is Cataract Surgery Covered in Insurances?
The coverage of insurance depends on what type of plan you have. An example would be Medicare, which covers a percentage of the expenses of the cataract surgery but the patient should meet certain criteria indicating that it is a medically necessary procedure. The requirements vary but the patient should be symptomatic and experiencing trouble in performing daily activities.
In the study, there are 3,448 beneficiaries of Medicare who were interviewed from 2011 to 2015. It was shown that the odds of getting cataract surgery is 40 percent lower for people who had none, one or two family members than those who have three or more family members. Dr. Maria A. Woodward, an assistant professor of ophthalmology and co-author of the study, thinks that the quality of support offered is important.
Is It Necessary to Undergo a Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is performed to remove the eye’s lens when it gets cloudy which is common for aging people. Currently, the only way to remove a cataract is through a surgery. The natural lens that is already cloudy is removed and replaced with a new and clear artificial lens known to be an intraocular lens (IOL). The researchers note that cataract surgery has a lot of benefits which include improved quality of life and reduced risk of falls.
If you are going to have cataract surgery, you will be asked by your doctor regarding your transportation and support as it is necessary in the recovery time after the surgery.
