Vision loss in the elderly and age-related conditions is also linked to increased mortality, co-morbid conditions, cognitive decline, falls, social isolation and limited self-care. And the prevalence of vision impairment is only set to grow, particularly due to ageing populations globally. Cataract remains the leading cause of blindness and a major cause of visual loss across the globe. This is despite the fact that cataracts are easily treated, and surgery is considered as a cost-effective intervention that can increase household income and expenditure and therefore support the wider economy. Whole of life There are interventions that are important for eye health and vision that cut across every stage of life and it is important to recognise and address that there are demographic factors, particularly gender, which will dictate eye health outcomes for individuals. For example, there are more women than men with sight loss in every category of vision impairment, and women are also less likely to have the means or information to access services and treatment. And while addressing avoidable vision loss is rightly a global priority, ensuring the full and equal inclusion of people with unavoidable visual impairment is equally important to ensure no-one is left behind.