An estimated 2.6 million Canadians are colour deficient meaning they can not see colour the same way someone with normal colour vision can. However, with the latest advancements in eye technology corrective colour lenses are now being offered for those with colour blindness. Colour corrective glasses are lenses designed for individuals who can not see or perceive colour accurately. The science behind this invention is fascinating and for those who are wondering how these specs work, it will be broken down in this article.
Firstly to understand how colour corrective lens operate we should at least understand the types of colour blindness. Specific cone cells in the retina of the eye either don’t exist or operate improperly, which is the main cause of colour blindness. Red-green colour blindness, which inhibits the perception of red and green colours, is the most prevalent type of colour blindness. It can range from mild to moderate to severe. Yellow-blue deficiency does also exist but it is much more rare. Someone who has these problem might find it difficult to distinguish between these colours or may see them differently than someone with normal colour vision.
The role of colour-blind glasses is to filter the wavelengths that enter the retina to enhance colour perception. The glasses filter out the wavelengths between green and red while a portion of the wavelengths are prohibited from entering so that they do not overlap the red and green light wavelengths
Another method the glasses do for improving colour vision involves changing the intensity of specific light wavelengths rather than blocking. The balance of light entering the eye is altered by these glasses’ coloured lens. They alter the light spectrum to produce clearer distinctions between colours, allowing colour-blind people to sense colours more accurately and clearly.
Which wavelengths to correct for which type of colour blind glasses depends on the severity of the individual. These glasses do not cure but rather enhance colour accuracy. With some people the glasses may operate but others who are more severe may not notice a difference. It is best to consult an optometrist for more detailed information.