Senator Percy Mockler sees connection between good vision and good outcomes

OTTAWA, ON, May 19, 2016 -- May is Vision Health Month, and doctors of optometry and our colleagues in the eye care field applaud Senator Percy Mockler's statement in the Senate calling for a non-partisan parliamentary committee to raise awareness and promote vision health from coast to coast to coast.

CAO President, Barry Thienes noted that, "While it is too early to speak to the issues that this committee may address, we hope to see a focus on children and seniors and the importance of prevention."

Given the incredible impact vision can have on the ability of children to learn and the effect of age related eye disease on independent living for seniors, looking at the spectrum of care is critical to better outcomes for all Canadians.

Vision loss affects all Canadians in some way, and at every stage of life. Regular eye exams by a doctor of optometry play an essential role in maintaining overall health, and can help detect potentially life threatening conditions, like brain tumours, high blood pressure and diabetes.

Other health conditions that may show symptoms in the eyes include tumors, aneurysms, autoimmune disorders, thyroid disease, sickle cell disease, liver disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's disease and other neurological or brain disorders.

About CAO and Doctors of Optometry
The Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO) is the national voice of optometry in Canada, representing 85% of doctors of optometry (ODs). Founded in 1941 and formally incorporated in 1948, the CAO works with its 10 provincial member associations within a federated framework.

The CAO is dedicated to collaboratively advancing the highest standard of primary eye care through the promotion of optimal vision and eye health, in partnership with all Canadians.

Doctors of optometry are health care specialists trained to diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and disorders affecting the eyes, and also assist in identifying general health conditions that are often first detected through an eye exam. Doctor of optometry-recommended treatments for patients can include eyeglasses, contact lenses, special low vision aids, eye coordination exercises, drug therapies, or referral to appropriate specialists or other healthcare professionals for advanced medical, surgical, or laser treatments. For more information or to find a optometrist, visitopto.ca

CONTACT: Debra Yearwood
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