The lens inside the eye helps focus light on the retina to provide sharp vision. With age, the lens gradually turns hard and yellow, a condition called a cataract. Over time, a person will have more difficulties seeing, and an eye doctor may recommend surgery to remove the cloudy lens. Surgery is the only effective way to treat cataracts, according to the National Eye Institute. However, some people may not wish to proceed with surgery at a particular time and may pursue alternatives.
Eyeglasses
Since the lens in the eye focuses light, the hardening and clouding of the lens will change any eyeglass prescription. A new eyeglass prescription may help improve vision change from early cataracts, says the National Eye Institute. The new eye glasses may not give perfect vision, but the updated prescription lenses may help redirect the light before it enters the eye. However, when cataracts start to affect a person’s vision, the eyeglass prescription may change frequently. Also, new glasses do not usually improve vision in people with advanced cataracts.
Magnification
Magnification may also help vision in early cataracts, says the National Eye Institute. This often helps people who spend a lot of time reading or doing detailed work. Hand-held magnifiers may help as well, though some people require both hands for tasks. High-powered over-the-counter reading glasses may offer a comfortable way to use magnification. Some magnifiers sit on a stand, and the person may move them into any position, including over a lap or at an angle. Magnification may not offer much help for advanced cataracts, though it may offer enough benefit to help with hobbies or other activities until a person decides to have the cataracts removed.
Lighting
The clouding and yellowing of the lens often makes seeing quite difficult in low light conditions. Using brighter lights may help improve vision in people with early cataracts, says the National Eye Institute. A person may try using light bulbs with a higher wattage if his light fixture will take a stronger bulb. He may want to move a standing lamp closer to read better. Some people find that moving a standing light to the side, slightly behind or slightly in front of a reading chair allows for better vision. Often, a person must try a few positions to find the best lighting placement. Advanced cataracts do not usually respond to increased lighting, though improved lighting may help slightly.
