Eye Saver Easy Reading Light Bulb useful in macular degeneration

ARMD
Eye Saver Easy Reading Light Bulb useful in macular degeneration
By NASA, Jul 27, 2005 - 1:38:38 AM

For years, there has been much research and development to improve poor eyesight, including the use of scratch-resistant and radiation-blocking lenses. Now, a revolutionary product for eye correction focuses specifically on the needs of those in working environments, called the Eye Saver Easy Reading Light Bulb.

Barton Pasternak, Executive Vice President of Westinghouse Lighting Corporation realized the need for more light on work surfaces. He consulted with Dr. Scott Smith of NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Ala. and Dr. Forrest Marshall, Chief Executive Officer of medical product development at Marshall Research, LLC.

Smith used his knowledge of deep space telescope optics to further enhance the Eye Saver, and Pasternak shifted his focus from developing a reflective insert on lamp shades to creating optimum lighting with a single light bulb. Pasternak also teamed with Dr. Marshall, whose research focused on developing innovative light bulbs to make seeing easier under working conditions.

The Eye Saver provides 40 percent more surface illumination on work and reading surfaces, compared to a standard incandescent light bulb, and includes a frosty finish that reduces eyestrain by lowering glare. With an average lifetime of 2000 hours, twice as long as a standard bulb, this product is suitable for people of all ages and is specifically ideal for duties requiring high light, including reading, writing, sewing, and crafting.

Such technology is particularly useful for those afflicted with macular degeneration, a common eye disease causing deterioration of the macula, the central area of the retina, and low vision, the loss of visual sharpness. Age-related macular degeneration is the number one cause of vision loss and legal blindness in American adults over the age of 60, according to the non-profit organization, Macular Degeneration Partnership.

The Eye Saver falls in line with recommendations made by Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's Lighting Research Center, the world's largest university-based center for lighting education and research. The center believes light fixtures close to task areas and bulbs with high light output are the best ways to combat the effects of low vision. Additionally, the Discovery Fund for Eye Research recognizes the Eye Saver as a useful source for enhancement of lighting due to eye disease.

The Eye Saver can be purchased through eye care professionals and retailers around the country. Meanwhile researchers at NASA and other institutions work to develop even new and more powerful vision-enhancing products.

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