Our eyes change as we age—but blurry vision, dull colors, and trouble seeing at night aren’t just signs of getting older. They could be symptoms of cataracts, one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide. That’s why June is Cataract Awareness Month—a time to prioritize eye health, raise awareness about cataracts, and encourage early detection.

Whether you notice vision changes or haven’t had an eye exam in years, this month is a timely reminder: your eyesight deserves attention.

What Are Cataracts?

The development of cataracts involves clouding of the lens, which impairs the passage of light. Over time, the condition leads to blurred or dim vision. Though cataracts are most commonly associated with aging, they can also result from:

• Diabetes
• Eye injuries
• Long-term UV exposure
• Smoking
• Family history of cataracts

The good news? Cataracts are treatable. When diagnosed early, they can be monitored and eventually removed with a safe and effective surgical procedure.

Why Cataract Awareness Month Matters

Cataract Awareness Month is all about education, prevention, and action every June. Many people wait until vision loss becomes severe before seeking help—but by then, the quality of life may have already declined.

This month aims to:

• Encourage routine eye exams, especially for adults over 60
• Help people recognize cataract symptoms early
• Reduce fear around treatment options like cataract surgery
• Advocate for greater access to vision care, especially in underserved communities

Spreading awareness can change lives. When someone recognizes the signs of cataracts and gets treatment, they regain their sight and independence.

Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Cataracts often develop slowly, so symptoms can be subtle at first. But catching it early is key to preserving your vision and quality of life. Watch for these common signs:

Blurry or cloudy vision

Objects can appear blurry or lack sharpness, even when wearing corrective lenses. It can feel like you’re looking through a foggy window.

Trouble seeing at night or in low light

Cataracts reduce your ability to see clearly in dim environments, making driving difficult or dangerous at night.

Faded or yellowed colors

Colors may lose their brightness or take on a yellowish tint. This change occurs gradually and may not be noticeable until it has progressed.

Sensitivity to light and glare

You may become more sensitive to sunlight or indoor lighting. Bright lights might feel harsh or uncomfortable, and you might squint more often.

Halos around lights

You may see glowing rings or halos around light sources, including headlights or lamps, especially in dark conditions.

Double vision in one eye

Seeing two images of a single object in one eye—monocular double vision—can occur as the cataract distorts light entering your eye.

Frequent modifications in your glasses or contacts prescription

If your vision worsens often, requiring more prescription updates than usual, it could be an early sign of cataract development. 

Schedule an eye exam if you or a loved one is experiencing these issues. Eye care professionals can detect cataracts during a simple, painless check-up.

Preventing and Managing Cataracts

While not all cataracts can be prevented, there are steps you can take to protect your eyes:

• Use sunglasses that provide full protection against UV rays
• Eat a nutrient-rich diet high in antioxidants
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol
• Keep chronic conditions like diabetes under control
• Get regular eye exams—especially after age 60

These habits not only support long-term eye health but also promote overall wellness.

Treatment Options: Cataract Surgery

Surgery remains the best option for treating and is also one of the safest procedures today. In the procedure, the clouded lens is taken out and substituted with a transparent artificial lens. Most patients experience improved vision within days. Depending on their overall eye health, many even achieve 20/20 vision or better.

If fear is holding you back, talk to your doctor. Cataract surgery is often completed in under 30 minutes and typically involves a short recovery with minimal discomfort. If you’re dealing with other eye conditions, medications may help—visit our dedicated Medications for Eye Conditions page to learn more.

How You Can Make a Difference

You don’t need to be an eye care expert to support Cataract Awareness Month 2025. Here are some ways you can participate:

• Schedule your eye exam—or bring a loved one who needs it
• Share cataract facts on social media to spread awareness
• Donate to organizations that provide eye care in low-resource areas

When you take the time to learn and speak up, you help prioritize vision care for yourself and your whole community.

Conclusion

National Cataract Awareness Month is more than a campaign—it’s a call to protect the gift of sight. Vision changes can happen slowly, and it’s easy to overlook early symptoms. But cataracts don’t have to limit your life or your independence.

Use this month to get informed, check, and encourage others to do the same. Your future self—and your vision—will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes cataracts to develop?

Cataracts typically develop due to the natural aging process and changes in the eye lens. However, other causes include prolonged UV exposure, diabetes, smoking, steroid use, and past eye injuries.

At what age should I start getting screened for cataracts?

Adults over age 60 should have a comprehensive eye exam at least once every one to two years. However, earlier screenings may be recommended for those with risk factors like diabetes or a family history of cataracts.

How can I participate in Cataract Awareness Month?

Get an eye exam, discuss vision health with loved ones, share awareness materials, or donate to eye care charities. Every small action helps raise awareness and promote early detection.