I have cataracts also and until I recover sufficiently from 2 other surgeries I have to make do in the sewing room. I use a swing arm lamp for general sewing. When I need to thread a needle I use a strip of white paper behind the needle and a flashlight to see with. Guide my quilt blocks along the 1/4 inch edge of my machines sewing foot. Use a large lamp by my easy chair where I do hand sewing and pressing. Stitch in the ditch by directing the seam exactly in the center of a marked foot. So far, so good! Takes extra time and care but it works for me.