The eyes are among the most important senses. A healthy pair of eyes means good vision, significantly impacting day-to-day life experiences. As humans age, their bodies undergo different changes, and the eyes are no exception. Unfortunately, with age, the risk of developing eye health diseases becomes more prevalent.
While most people know the benefits of keeping up with routine eye check-ups even when their eyes are in perfect shape, some are still unaware of the importance of regular visual checkups. Yet, regular eye health check-ups help detect potentially dangerous eye problems early when they are most treatable.
Causes of Blindness
According to the CDC, the leading causes of blindness and low vision in seniors living in the U.S. are age-related eye disorders such as;
- Cataracts: A cataract is a cloudy area that develops around the eye lens. If left unchecked, it can interfere with a senior's vision. Depending on its severity, it can be corrected through surgery or wearing glasses.
- Macular degeneration (AMD): AMD is an eye disorder that occurs when the macula is damaged. It causes blurred or reduced central vision. Seniors with this condition have poor front vision. However, their peripheral vision is fine.
- Glaucoma: It is a disease that happens gradually when fluid buildups in the eye. The rising pressure in the eye destroys the optic nerve and can lead to blindness. Glaucoma tends to run in the family.
- Diabetic retinopathy is a complication in people with diabetes. It occurs when the blood vessels in the retina are damaged. While it causes mild visual problems in the initial stages, it can lead to blindness if left untreated. It is controlled through careful management of diabetes.
- Dry eye: It is a condition that develops when the tears are unable to offer enough lubrication in the eyes. The disorder may occur in one or both eyes. While the condition causes discomfort, it does not cause blindness. Treatment options include eye drops, gels, and ointments.
A senior loved one can be a risk of developing vision problems if they have:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Family history of eye disorder such as glaucoma
- Had a previous eye surgery
Senior Eye Health Care Tips
It's no secret that vision changes with age. However, these changes do not have to affect the senior's lifestyle. With the proper eye care practices and routine eye checkups, senior loved ones can safeguard their vision and still have vibrant and active senior years. Here are eye care tips from Senior Helpers of West Ky every senior should observe:
- Eat a healthy diet: Eye-healthy foods such as carrots, papayas, sweet potatoes, kale, and broccoli helps lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
- Keep the eyes protected from the sun: When outside, bringing a pair of sunglasses protects the sun from direct exposure to sunlight
- Senior loved ones should always keep their contact lenses or prescription glasses on, indoors or outside, to help reduce eye strain.
- Seniors should get enough sleep- at least eight hours
- When reading, seniors should choose places with good lighting
Choosing the Right Eye Doctor
Most people often get confused about the kind of doctor to visit for an eye checkup. While an ophthalmologist is an eye specialist licensed to practice medicine and surgery, an optometrist is a health care professional who provides primary vision care, including vision assessment, diagnosis, prescribing, and dispensing eyeglasses and contact lenses. Scheduling for an appointment with either is a good option.
In addition, according to the American Optometric Association, senior loved ones are recommended to have comprehensive eye exams at least once a year.
Being the primary caregiver to a loved one is undeniably a big responsibility. Keeping up with the day-to-day pressure and duties that accompany it can overwhelm you. If you need help caring for a senior loved one, we are here to help! At Senior Helpers of West Ky, we are the premier in-home caregiver service in Hopkinsville, Paducah, Murray, and Madisonville.
We specialize in helping senior clients living with Alzheimer's, dementia, and Parkinson's. No matter what kind of care your loved one may need, our staff is dedicated to providing nothing short of exceptional. We guarantee better peace of mind for them and you. Contact us, Senior Helpers of West Ky, today for more details.