Look out! The bionic eye is here
When “The Six Million Dollar Man” first appeared 35 years ago, the world of bionics was just science fiction. But, just as gadgets from “Star Trek” have made their way into real-life, bionics development has also advanced. Though none of the bionic body parts have the same superhuman capacity that Steve Austin or Jaime Sommers experienced, they have made a significant impact for those who needed them. The latest development is the bionic eye. It is still undergoing research but a few people in the US and UK have received them. Although it does not give them perfect vision, the recipients have been grateful that they can now see light. It is amazing to realise how much one depends on vision to do ordinary things. Those born blind would not understand that, as they learned to cope with their disability from birth. They probably view us with disdain. However, when you have been used to relying on your vision, it does become disastrous when you suddenly lose it. You become dependent on someone else for activities of daily living, for example. One man described his delight in being able to sort out his socks now. Once this technology is developed, it will be further enhanced, I’m sure. It may not be long before it can restore full vision. After that, it may be as strong as an eagle’s.
