Eye care

In January 2026, the UK Government published proposals as part of its Road Safety Strategy, including a consultation on whether drivers aged 70+ should have mandatory eyesight checks. Nothing has changed yet. This is a consultation, which means the Government is asking for views before deciding what happens next. Still, it is a useful reminder that good vision is a key part of safer driving, for you and everyone around you. If you want reassurance about your eyesight for driving, we can help. Book an eye test What’s being proposed for drivers aged 70+? The Government is consulting on the idea of introducing regular eyesight testing for drivers aged 70 and over as part of licence renewal. The aim is to reduce risk linked to age-related changes such as: gradual changes in sharpness of vision reduced contrast sensitivity (seeing clearly in low light) greater sensitivity to glare slower reaction times and other health factors that can affect driving Key point: These are proposals, not new rules. No extra testing has been introduced at this stage. Driving eyesight standards: what applies right now? Current legal eyesight standards still apply to all drivers, whatever your age. The Road Safety Strategy proposals also reinforce increased use of roadside eyesight checks by police. If a driver fails a roadside eyesight test, the DVLA may take action, including removing a licence. If you are unsure whether you meet the standard, an eye examination is the simplest way to check and get clear advice. Check my vision for driving Struggling with glare at night? You’re not alone The proposals also highlight research showing many drivers have reduced or stopped night driving due to headlamp glare, with brighter LED headlights and taller vehicles thought to contribute. If night driving feels harder than it used to, it could be down to: a change in your prescription early lens changes in the eye dry eye glare sensitivity or reduced contrast An eye test can help identify what is going on, and we can talk through practical options such as lens choices and coatings designed to improve comfort when driving at night. Why regular eye tests matter more as we get older Vision changes can be subtle, and many people adapt without realising their eyesight has dropped below what is comfortable or safe for driving. A routine eye test helps you: stay confident behind the wheel spot changes early keep your prescription up to date get tailored advice if you drive at night or in poor weather If you’re 70+, we recommend keeping your eye tests regular, even if your vision feels “fine”. How Leightons can help At Leightons, our focus is simple: helping you see clearly and stay confident in everyday life, including on the road. With an eye test, you will get: a professional check of your vision and eye health clear, practical advice about your vision for driving support if you have concerns about glare, night driving, or changing eyesight

Hay fever affects 1 in 5 people in the UK. But coughing and sneezing aside, how does hay fever impact your eyesight? Often at its peak between March and September, hay fever is an allergy to pollen. Light and fluffy, pollen grains travel well on the air, particularly on warm, humid days – which can leave the summer months feeling less than sunny for some. Common hay fever symptoms include sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, headaches and feeling tired. Speak to a GP, pharmacist or optometrist if you are prone to hay fever, as they’ll be able to discuss appropriate remedies such as tablets, syrups, nasal sprays and eye drops. Peak time for pollen Hay fever sufferers need to be most vigilant during these times of the year: From late March to the middle of May – tree pollen is at its peak Middle of May to July – grass pollen is at its peak End of June to September – weed pollen is at its peak As 95% of hay fever sufferers are allergic to grass pollen, mid-May to July is the ‘peak time’ for hay fever. One top tip: cut down on drinking alcohol during hay fever season. It contains histamine, a chemical that promotes allergic reactions. The UK pollen forecast is also useful. Eyes down The classic sore eyes associated with hay fever is called allergic conjunctivitis. It’s an umbrella term for issues with the thin clear membrane covering the whites of the eyes and the insides of the eyelids, often triggered by allergies – including pollen. Although it’s unpleasant, it’s very unlikely to affect your eyesight in the long term. However, in the short term. You might experience a constant itching sensation and feel the need to rub your eyes. This is not only due to pollen landing in the eye, but the release of histamine which irritates the nerve endings. The typical red colouring of the eye is the result of blood vessels dilating or swelling to fight off the irritant. There are a number of remedies you could try to ease the symptoms. Many people find eyes become less irritated by using over-the-counter antihistamines or consider wearing wrap-around sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen in the air. It’s all a blur The most notable change in vision will come from watery eyes. The tear ducts produce excess fluid to flush out the pollen, which temporarily causes your vision to blur. You might find your sight deteriorates as the tears thicken into a sticky substance, but this will be short lived. Try using a cold compress to ease irritation or consult your GP, pharmacist or optometrist who’ll be able to recommend appropriate eye drops to ease your symptoms. Book your eye test today If you’re feeling the hay fever this year, our Leightons optical staff are happy to give you the advice you need to get relief. Get in touch today on 0800 40 20 20, or book an eye appointment online.