Abstract: Uncorrected refractive error (URE) is the most prevalent cause of visual impairment, particularly among moderate to severe cases. Despite its relatively simple treatment, URE poses a significant social burden without insufficient attention and early intervention.  URE in children is a widely concerned issue, while URE in the elderly is still in a blind spot that urgently needs attention. Beyond age, factors such as gender and economic status are also closely related to URE. The social impact of URE is extensive. Across all demographic groups, URE may lead to a decrease in quality of life and psychological health issues. For specific populations, such as children, URE can result in amblyopia, while for the elderly it can increase the risk of falls and other accidental injuries. To improve the current situation of URE, the provision of refractive services and spectacles needs to be enhanced. The burden of primary vision screening can be reduced through a variety of optometric methods such as self-correction of refractive error and the application of photorefraction technology. Telemedicine can improve refractive services in areas with poor medical resources. Options to enhance spectacles provision include the provision of ready-made spectacles and the use of self-adjustable glasses. (Int Rev Ophthalmol, 2025, 49:  51-56)

Key words: uncorrected refractive errors, refractive errors, visual impairment