Your eyes change with age, generally getting worse over time. Many older individuals require stronger eyeglass prescriptions over time. Those who have never needed glasses may begin using reading glasses in their daily lives. Light sensitivity and other vision issues can also develop with age. Below, we will discuss ways to reduce vision loss for older adults.
Common Causes of Vision Loss in Older Individuals
While there can be a wide assortment of causes for vision loss with age, there are a few that are more commonly occurring. Cataracts, high blood pressure, age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy are among the most common causes in America. You may want to talk to your primary care physician and your eye doctor about your risk factors for these conditions.
Regular Eye Exams
Regular eye examinations from your optometrist or ophthalmologist are important for more than just understanding how your vision changes over time. Your eye doctor can identify signs of cataracts or glaucoma. The earlier these are found, the more likely intervention can occur. Treatment to cure or slow the progression of these conditions is more effective when they are caught early on.
Healthy Eating Can Improve Your Vision
While most people know that carrots are good for your eyes, there are plenty of other foods that can improve eye health. Dark leafy greens such as kale and spinach are high in beta-carotene and Vitamin A, the two nutrients that make carrots good for vision. Omega-3 fatty acids are also known to improve eye health, as well. Foods high in this essential fat include sardines, salmon, walnuts, and chia seeds.
Blood Pressure and Vision Loss
High blood pressure is tied to an assortment of health conditions. When blood pressure is high, it can affect vision by damaging the blood vessels in your eyes. A healthy lifestyle and diet changes can keep blood pressure in check. However, further intervention may require medical care or medication.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Eating healthy and staying active can reduce vision loss. As mentioned above, eating foods rich in certain nutrients can be helpful. But improving your diet overall and exercising regularly can go a long way. Even light exercise, such as walking or chair yoga can improve your overall health. A good diet and active lifestyle can improve your overall health and reduce vision loss, overall.
Wearing Sunglasses When Outdoors
Sunglasses reduce eyestrain by blocking out UVA and UVB rays. Glasses that block out more of the sun’s harmful rays can be more efficient in protecting your vision. Consider wearing wrap-around sunglasses for further protection.
Managing Vision Loss From Aging
Even with following all of the above tips, vision loss will likely be a problem for most older individuals. Managing and adjusting the level of assistance your eyes need will help you navigate life as the quality of your eyesight degrades. In the early stages of vision loss, prescription glasses or contacts may be necessary, or magnified reading glasses. Reading, driving, and other activities that require focused vision may become more challenging without them.
Improving Home Life as Vision Loss Progresses
Older individuals can improve their quality of life at home despite vision loss with a few easy improvements. Consider upgrading the bulbs in lighting fixtures to be brighter. Consider buying books, clocks, and other household items with larger print. Many electronic devices have screen readers or narration settings for those with poor vision. Motion sensor nightlights can make trips to the bathroom at night easier. If your loved one needs daily assistance as a result of their vision loss or other medical conditions, consider hiring a home health aide. A certified home health aide can help your loved one with daily care, such as meal preparation, bathing, light housekeeping, doctor’s appointments, and more.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for medical advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently; while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information contact us or call (718)-979-6900.
