With the aging of the population, vision loss from eye disease is becoming a significant public health issue.More than 40 million people are over the age of 65, and that number is expected to grow to more than 88 million by 2050. As we age, our eyes become more susceptible to various conditions that can affect our vision and overall eye health.
However, with the help of Everett & Hurite, Pittsburgh's premier eye care provider, seniors can maintain their eye health and preserve their vision for years to come. We are here to help. Schedule an appointment today to experience the best in eye care.
If you want to learn how to protect your eyes as you age, continue reading for essential tips and advice from our team of eye care experts.
The Importance of Routine Eye Exams
The first and most crucial step in maintaining eye health as you age is to have regular eye exams. These exams help detect any changes in your vision and identify potential problems early on when they are more easily treatable. It is recommended that adults aged 65 and overshould have an eye exam every year or two, even if they do not wear glasses or contact lenses.
Some common age-related eye diseases and conditions that can be detected during an eye exam include:
- Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD): This is the leading cause of vision loss in individuals aged 50 and older. Regular eye exams can help detect AMD early on, allowing for better management and treatment options.
- Cataracts: As we age, the natural lens in our eyes can become cloudy, causing blurred vision and difficulty seeing at night. Regular eye exams can help monitor cataract development and ensure timely treatment if needed.
- Glaucoma: This condition damages the optic nerve and can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. Fortunately, during an eye exam, your optometrist can perform a simple test to check for signs of glaucoma.
- Diabetic Retinopathy: For individuals with diabetes, regular eye exams are crucial in detecting and managing this condition that affects the blood vessels in the retina.
Other eye conditions that can develop as we get older are:
- Dry eye: Our eyes naturally produce fewer tears as we age, leading to dryness and discomfort. Eye exams can help identify and treat this condition, preventing any long-term damage.
- Floaters and Flashes: While these are usually harmless, they can be a sign of a more serious eye condition such as retinal detachment. Regular eye exams can help identify any changes in your vision and address them promptly.
Tips for Maintaining Eye Health
Apart from regular eye exams, there are also some lifestyle changes and habits that seniors can adopt to help maintain their eye health. These include:
1. Eating A Healthy Diet
A diet rich in nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc, and vitamins C and E can help protect against age-related vision problems like AMD and cataracts. Some foods that are beneficial for eye health include leafy green vegetables, fish high in omega-3s (such as salmon), nuts, beans, citrus fruits, and eggs.
2. Protecting Your Eyes From The Sun
Exposure to harmful UV rays can increase the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Wearing sunglasses (even on cloudy days) and a hat with a brim can help protect your eyes from these damaging rays.
3. Quitting Smoking
Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of developing conditions such as AMD, cataracts, and dry eye syndrome. If you are a smoker, consider quitting or seeking help to quit.
4. Staying Physically Active
Regular exercise can help maintain overall health, including eye health. Studies have shown that regular physical activity can lower the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration.
5. Maintaining A Healthy Weight
Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, which can also affect your eyesight. By maintaining a healthy weight, you can reduce your risk of these conditions and protect your eyesight.
6. Taking Breaks When Using Digital Devices
Staring at screens for extended periods can cause eye strain, dry eyes, and blurred vision. To prevent this, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look away from your screen at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This will give your eyes a break and help prevent digital eye strain.
7. Keeping Chronic Health Conditions Under Control
Chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease can affect your eyesight. By managing these conditions and following your doctor's recommendations, you can help protect your vision.
How Everett & Hurite Can Help
Seniors deserve the best in eye care, and at Everett & Hurite, we are committed to providing just that. Our team of experienced optometrists specializes in comprehensive eye exams, early detection and treatment of age-related eye conditions, and personalized care for each patient.
Our services include:
- Comprehensive eye exams: Regular check-ups to monitor your vision and detect any potential eye conditions early.
- Cataract surgery: Advanced surgical options to restore clear vision impaired by cataracts.
- Glaucoma management: Effective treatments to control intraocular pressure and prevent progression.
- Diabetic eye care: Specialized care for managing diabetic retinopathy and other diabetes-related eye conditions.
- Macular degeneration treatment: Innovative therapies to manage AMD and preserve your central vision.
- Dry eye treatment: Custom solutions to alleviate dry eye symptoms and improve comfort.
- Eye floaters and flashes treatment: Comprehensive evaluations and treatment options for these common age-related vision changes.
Expert Eye Care for Seniors – Trust in Everett & Hurite!
Seniors are at a higher risk of developing age-related eye conditions, but with regular eye exams and healthy lifestyle habits, many of these conditions can be detected and managed early on. AtEverett & Hurite, we understand the importance of maintaining good eye health in seniors and we are here to provide top-notch care and support.
Contact us today to schedule your next eye exam. Let us help you maintain the best possible vision for a lifetime.
