On this page
At work
While you wait for surgery, it may help to have:
- brighter task lighting, or a larger screen
- screen magnification software
- a change of duties if you drive for work and your sight is affected
Most people need a few days to a couple of weeks off after surgery, depending on their job. Avoid dusty or dirty work until your eye has healed.
Is it a disability?
Cataracts are usually treated successfully, so most people are not covered by the Equality Act for long. If you have other conditions that affect your sight, you may be.
Benefits
Cataracts alone do not usually qualify for PIP, because surgery works well for most people. If you have long-term sight loss from other conditions, read about glaucoma or macular degeneration.
Help with costs
You may be able to get help with the cost of sight tests and glasses. Try our NHS health costs check.
Sources we used
- GOV.UK, Definition of disability under the Equality Act 2010
- GOV.UK, Access to Work
- GOV.UK, Driving eyesight rules
We check this page at least once a year, and sooner when the rules change. Read how we check our facts, or tell us if something looks wrong.