Senior Living News

How Does Age Impact Eye Health?

As you get older, natural aging processes can affect the structures in your eyes and make eye and vision problems more likely. While caring for your eyes is essential at every age, you should pay particular attention to your vision as a senior and visit an eye care specialist as soon as you notice issues.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, people aged 40 and older typically produce fewer tears, which can make your eyes prone to dryness and impact your eye health. Your lens may become less flexible or break down, leading to cataracts or reduced vision. The fluid inside your eye (vitreous) also tends to shrink, which can cause several age-related vision problems.

Common Eye Disorders in Older Adults

Eye changes are a normal part of getting older, and many of these changes won't cause vision difficulties. However, some people develop more serious eye conditions that can lead to vision loss without prompt diagnosis and treatment. Common eye disorders in older adults include:

• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD develops when age-related eye changes impact a part of your retina called the macula. Macular degeneration causes blurry or wavy vision and can make daily activities, such as reading or driving, more challenging.
• Cataracts. Cataracts are cloudy areas of your lens and affect 50% of Americans over 80. While small cataracts may not cause vision problems, more severe clouding may blur your vision and make everyday tasks difficult.
• Dry eye. Dry eye happens when your eyes stop making enough tears, leading to discomfort. While mild cases don't usually cause vision issues, chronically dry eyes can increase your risk of infection and damage the structures inside your eyes.
• Glaucoma. Glaucoma occurs when fluid pressure builds up inside the eye. Without treatment, glaucoma may cause vision difficulties and blindness.

You may be at a higher risk of certain eye issues if you have preexisting chronic health conditions. For example, older adults with diabetes are more likely to develop a condition called diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy damages the blood vessels in the retina, potentially leading to vision loss.

What Are the Symptoms of Age-Related Eye Problems?

If you develop an eye condition as a senior, you may notice certain symptoms. Common symptoms of age-related eye problems include:

• Difficulty distinguishing between objects
• Problems reading small print
• Redness, swelling or dryness
• Floaters moving across your visual field
• More frequent falls
• Difficulty seeing in low light
• Flashes of light

However, many common eye conditions don't cause symptoms in the early stages. Vision changes caused by age-related eye problems often develop gradually, making it harder to notice a decline in your eyesight. Therefore, you shouldn't put off having regular eye checks, even if your eyes and vision appear normal.

How Often Should I Have My Eye Health Checked as a Senior?

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends scheduling an eye exam with a qualified ophthalmologist every 1 to 2 years if you're 65 or older. An eye care specialist can diagnose subtle changes in your eye health before they develop into more serious problems and recommend an effective treatment plan.

Regular checkups increase your chances of catching eye conditions early, significantly increasing your chance of successful treatment. Your eye doctor can also explain how to keep your eyes healthy and recommend adjustments to your eye care routine or environment to maximize your vision and quality of life.

You may need more regular eye exams if you have a health condition that increases your risk of vision problems, such as diabetes. Your ophthalmologist can recommend the most suitable schedule for your health profile.

Tips for Maintaining Healthy Eyes

Your overall health impacts your eye health, so lifestyle changes that increase your well-being can also protect your eyes. For instance, taking steps to lower your risk of high blood pressure and maintain heart health may also reduce the chance of developing blurred vision. The following tips can help you maintain healthy eyes as a senior:

• Removing trip hazards and cushioning sharp corners around your assisted living apartment to reduce the risk of eye injuries
• Exercising regularly to minimize the risk of diabetes, heart disease and other conditions that could affect your eyesight
• Wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes against harsh sunlight
• Maintaining a healthy sleep schedule to support healthy eye lubrication
• Eating a healthy, balanced diet high in essential nutrients

Managing preexisting health conditions, enjoying a healthy lifestyle and scheduling regular eye exams can help you maintain healthy eyes as an older adult. By prioritizing your eye health, you can enjoy clearer vision and enhanced well-being at Autumn View Gardens in Creve Coeur, MO.