UK-based optometry chain Vision Express is piloting menopause training for its clinical staff to help provide women with the understanding and support they need during this phase of life.  

The move follows an online survey of 2,000 British women over 45 undertaken by Vision Express earlier this year. Results revealed three in 10 of them feel healthcare providers don’t fully understand menopause symptoms and when it comes to eye health, the conversation is even less frequent, said Dan McGhee, Vision Express clinical services director. “We want women to feel encouraged to book an eye test if they notice changes to their vision during menopause and feel confident to speak to the optician about their symptoms.” 

While some of the menopause’s physical and mental effects are more widely understood, it can also lead to blurred vision, dry eyes and other changes in eye health which often go unrecognised, he said. “Our research revealed over a third of women over 45 are unaware that changes in eye health could be related to menopause. For the 26% of women who reported feeling scared about changes in their eyesight during menopause, this lack of information can be deeply unsettling.”  

Starting in November 2024, Vision Express, part of the EssilorLuxottica group, is rolling out a menopause training programme for eyecare professionals in 30 of its stores, with plans to extend it to its 500-plus locations in 2025.