Charles Bonnet syndrome (CBS) causes people who have lost a lot of sight to see things that aren’t real (hallucinations).
These hallucinations are caused by failing eyesight and are a normal response the brain has to the loss of vision. They’re not caused by a mental health problem or dementia.
People with Charles Bonnet syndrome are usually aware that the visions aren’t real, even if they’re vivid but can be distressing nonetheless.
There is currently no cure for Charles Bonnet syndrome but there are strategies for managing the condition, and researchers continue to look for additional approaches.
If you would like to get involved in representing the inherited sight loss community through activities like focus groups, surveys and research projects, join our Experience Panel.
UK researchers have discovered that passing a weak electrical current between electrodes on a person’s scalp may lead to a reduction in frequency of the visual hallucinations experienced by some people living with sight loss.
Prof Dominic Ffytche will provide an explanation of what Charles Bonnet Syndrome is, the science behind it, and share some potential coping strategies for people who experience visual hallucinations.
