Low sunlight

[margaretm]

Does anyone else dread the disorientation which walking in low, autumn sunlight causes? The sunglasses which I currently use seem useless. I would be grateful for any tips. Thanks.

[cocoa]

I had exactly the same problem today and was going to ask the same question. I don't have any answers but hopefully somebody will.

[margaretm in reply to cocoa]

Thanks, Cocoa. Glad I am not alone.

[oniki44]

Hi Margaret, same problem here. I try to walk or use the scooter in the shade as much as possible and cross busy roads at zebra crossings. I also hold my head sideways in order to avoid bumping into other people. The things we have to put up with, eh?? Best wishes from Oniki.

[Jenny789]

Hello,

For quite a while when going out I wear a pair of transition non prescription glasses. In fact, I have just ordered my second pair. They are expensive but worth it. Get yourself a pair.

[margaretm in reply to Jenny789]

Thanks, Jenny. I shall investigate.

[klazien]

Able bodied people have the same problem.

[tedjohnson]

How interesting this website is ! You read about various aspects of Ataxia and often get reassurance .yesterday I went for a short walk using my crutches and then sat in the sun for about 15 minutes. When I got up to walk back to the car my legs wouldn't work and two people had to help me back to the car, and I was actually sick. Today I am back to normal (whatever that is 😎) but I am now aware of how sight can be part of Ataxia. I really must stop running with my eyes closed!!!------if only!?,

Best wishes. Ted

[margaretm in reply to tedjohnson]

You have hit the nail on the head here, Ted. No two days are the same. Balance is a very complex thing. Glad you got help back to your car and that your sense of humour saw you through.

[Ant1]

Hello Margaret,

I find any bright lights make for poor vision but I have cataracts developing. Have you had your eyes tested recently?

I like Polaroid sunglasses as they eliminate bright reflections; I don't like the automatic things which seem too slow to clear, looking silly when it's not so bright - and a bit bad-mannered if trying to talk to the wearer! Even when it's my wife...

Some years ago, well before Ataxia etc, I had hayfever and sore eyes to the extent that I wore dark glasses from bed to bedtime and I found my eyes seemed to be compensating for the reduced light so I weaned myself off them, haven't needed them for, dunno, 30-40 years.

Regards Ant

[margaretm in reply to Ant1]

Thanks, Ant. I am due an eye test.