Paul Gluckman

Vision care threads through Johannesburg's working life in ways many people don't articulate until their eyes fail them. Office workers, drivers, shopkeepers, teachers, and construction workers all depend on clear sight to earn a living. For many, an optometrist becomes a recurring touchpoint—someone who catches early signs of diabetes, hypertension, or age-related decline before a doctor does. Employers increasingly require occupational health screening, which includes eye tests, making optometrists gatekeepers of workplace safety in industries where vision is non-negotiable. In township and outlying areas, access to eye care is often limited, meaning a reliable local optometrist becomes a critical health resource. The relationship extends beyond the transaction: regular patients build trust with their optometrist, report changes in vision confidently, and follow through on recommendations. For families managing chronic conditions or aging parents, continuity of eye care—the same practitioner tracking changes year to year—provides reassurance. An optometrist in Johannesburg isn't just selling glasses; they're maintaining a fundamental pillar of health and economic participation.