A NEW project has been launched in York to improve the lives of older people and to help prevent them from losing their sight.

The OPTIC (Older People Taking Control Project) aims to identify people at risk of losing their sight and then offer support, helping them seek professional advice while ensuring they are as safe as possible in their own homes.

The project is run by York Blind and Partially Sighted Society with the support of the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) and North Yorkshire Fire And Rescue Service.

Tracy Wilson, of the project, said: “We know that 50 per cent of sight loss is avoidable so it makes sense to identify as many people as possible who may be at risk.

“If you have impaired vision, you are more likely to have a fall, and have an increased risk of a fire in your home.”

Diane Roworth, York Blind and Partially Sighted Society chief officer, said: “RNIB’s pioneering Eyes Right eyesight screening tool will be used to detect low vision and older people will be encouraged to get their eyes tested regularly, and that means once a year if you are over 70.

“Over the next year we will contact as many groups of older people as we can to offer the Eyes Right screening test.

“It’s free and we will be happy to visit any meeting, so if you are part of a group that would like to hear about this fantastic new project just give us a call.”

Six officers from York fire station have just undergone training to understand the impact of sight loss.

They will now offer everyone they visit while carrying out fire safety checks as part of their everyday duties an Eyes Right test and tailor-made safety advice.

Anyone experiencing difficulties with their vision will be referred to York Blind and Partially Sighted Society for advice and support.

Anyone experiencing visual difficulties will receive advice on aids and equipment, confidence boosting courses and a peer buddying scheme - and York Blind and Partially Sighted Society hope that older people with sight loss will also volunteer to help others.

For more details, phone York Blind and Partially Sighted Society on 01904 636269.