A REPORT by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) revealed that 560,000 older people in the North West are "needlessly" risking their sight by not having regular eye tests.
RNIB is urging all over-60s to have comprehensive eye tests each year and is calling on the Government to invest in a large-scale eye health awareness campaign targeting older people.
RNIB spokesperson for the North West Lindsay Armstrong said: "Our message to people over 60 is simple: Don't wait until you notice changes in your vision to visit your optician - get your eyes tested every year. An eye test will detect the early stages of a serious condition and could save your sight".
Boots opticians are working alongside RNIB to help reinforce the importance of regular eye tests for older people.
In response to RNIB's latest findings, Boots opticians has been offering free eye tests for everyone over 50.
For more information call RNIB's helpline on 0845 766 9999 or visit www.rnib.org.uk.
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