A study of 2,000 adults found three quarters have missed or delayed a health appointment of some kind because they’re too busy.
One in five Brits confess they’re too busy to look after their own health, often missing crucial eye tests, dental check-ups and GP appointments. A staggering three quarters have postponed or completely missed a health appointment due to being too busy.
Work obligations and childcare responsibilities were among the top excuses, while the stress of dealing with the admin of getting an appointment was another major reason adults have neglected blood tests or eye examinations. The study, commissioned by Specsavers for Glaucoma Awareness Week, aims to highlight the seriousness of the condition frequently referred to as the ‘silent thief of sight’.
A spokesperson for Specsavers emphasised: “When you feel like there’s nothing wrong, it’s all too easy to push check-ups to the bottom of your to-do list. Life gets hectic, and we all have a lot on our plates, but your health, including your eyesight, should never be left on the back burner.”
They warned that Glaucoma can develop gradually over time without any noticeable symptoms, often leading to people not realising there’s an issue until ‘irreversible damage’ has occurred.
“That’s why regular eye check-ups are so important,” they added, “they’re not just about examining your vision, they’re a vital part of catching conditions like glaucoma early.”
The research also uncovered other simple tasks adults often neglect due to lack of time. Getting a full night’s sleep or drinking enough water are often overlooked, with one in five admitting they’ve been so engrossed in work that they’ve neglected to take a proper screen break or even move from their seat.
Of those who fail to prioritise their own health, 28 percent put their children’s needs first, while 19 percent admit housework tops their list of priorities.
However, over a third confessed that a health scare or definite symptom would spur them to book a check-up they had been neglecting. Many admitted they understand the importance of these checks, but they’re just too easy to forget.
Four in ten believe easier booking systems would help them focus more on their own health, while a third say having more time in the day would be beneficial.
A spokesperson for Specsavers commented: “It’s easy to let health checks slide when you’re juggling a busy schedule, but looking after your eyesight is something you simply can’t afford to ignore.
“A quick and simple eye check every couple of years – or more often if you’re at higher risk – could protect you from serious long-term consequences. Your vision is one of your most precious senses, and it deserves your attention.”
TOP 20 THINGS ADULTS HAVE SKIPPED BECAUSE THEY WERE ‘TOO BUSY’:
- A full night’s sleep
- Drinking enough water
- Going for a walk outdoors
- Meal prepping healthy food
- Taking breaks from screens or sitting for long periods
- Getting a proper breakfast
- Booking a dental check-up
- Stretching or mobility exercises
- A gym session
- Booking an eye test
- Meditation or mindfulness practice
- Booking a GP appointment
- Trying a fitness class or PT session
- Booking a health screening (e.g. smear test, blood pressure check)
- Having a skin check or mole check
- Getting a hearing test
- Doing a breast or testicular self-exam
- Attending a therapy or counselling session
- Downloading a health tracker app
- Signing up to a GP