While I must make it clear that I work for Optima Low Vision Services, I am not in the sales team, nor have I been asked or given any incentive whatsoever by them to create this post. 

As an autistic person, I have always worn sunglasses in social or difficult situations as they act like a two-way mirror (I can see out, but my eyes can’t easily be seen)  and this helps me to manage eye contact with other people. Not only do I often find that eye contact is physically painful, but it increases my feeling of vulnerability. I have therefore worn sunglasses inside and outside for a long time during social events.  However, I have found that sunglasses can make it more difficult to see in low light and this creates a few problems, as you might imagine. 

So, when I came across what looked like a pair of sunglasses in our stock at work, I thought they looked good and I bought a pair. However, I realised quickly that they are actually filters, and are far superior to sunglasses for me.  

Because the lenses of the filters are not as tinted as sunglasses, they can be used in low light situations, and I can see completely clearly both inside and outside. 

 This makes it much easier and more comfortable for me to engage in and manage conversations and social interactions indoors, or when it’s overcast or twilight, outside. At the same time, the tint on the filters is at prescription level and is therefore sufficient to protect my eyes from harsh sunlight, which is very important for people of my age. 

I have found that the filters help me to navigate difficult social situations with much greater ease, and are much more effective for me than sunglasses have been. They transform intimidating environments like travelling on my own on a packed train for several hours, or potentially stressful social interactions, both inside and out, into more manageable experiences. They’ve made my social life much less stressful. 

In addition, the lenses come with a choice of frames and colours to suit everybody. 

If you are interested in having a pair, please check out the website: https://www.optimalowvision.co.uk/

Stay safe

BC