One can understand why people put off going to the doctors and every excuse to avoid the dentist. But the optician?

When did you last go? Yet it did not hurt and your glasses (or contacts) fundamentally affects how you see the world and how the world sees you. A pair of glasses may cost £100 or maybe £200. No more than a suit or fancy dress. Yet they will last far longer and will have to work well with every other fashion item you wear.