Sunglasses are essential tools that protect the eyes against harmful UV rays. They come in handy, especially during hot summer in cities like Frederick. However, most older adults do not get to enjoy the luxury of wearing sunglasses.
Research by the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center shows that about 92% of older adults on Medicare have prescription eyeglasses. If older individuals decide to use sunglasses, they will not be able to see well. Thus, they need to know the best alternatives for sunglasses.
What Is the Importance of Protecting Eyes During Summer?
Summer in Maryland ensures residents experience some of the year's hottest months. In Hagerstown, the average temperatures can be a low of 68°F and a high of 86°F. In such cases, the sun is often very bright.
Many older adults take advantage of the hot summer days to have fun at the beach. However, one should remember that the sun is not good for the eyes. It is responsible for emitting Ultraviolet radiation (UV). The UV brings with it health risks that include;
- Conjunctival eye cancer
- Macular degeneration, where the UV damages one Retina
- Cataracts
- Progressive loss of vision
- Skin cancer on areas around the eyes and the eyelids
- Keratitis
The conditions associated with too much exposure to sunlight ensure the significance of older individuals to protect their eyes. Thus, if one cannot do without the prescribed lenses, one must find other practical alternatives. Here are some of the best options that older persons with eye conditions can consider using.
Primary Alternatives to Wearing Sunglasses
Use a Clip-on
A clip-on comes in handy for those who wish to protect their eyes. Clip-on glasses allow one to clip them on prescription lenses. They do not contain any temples. In short, they are detachable lenses that one can clip and unclip at will.
Clip-on glasses ensure that older adults can protect their eyes from harmful UV lights without compromising one's vision. If an older patient wants to stroll outside in their favorite city, like Thurmont, they can always consider the clip-on.
Use Hats
Older individuals with prescription lenses can always consider using hats when they are outside. Hats can provide shade to one's eyes. Thus, it limits one's encounter with direct sunlight. Summer days give families a chance to enjoy the outdoors. For instance, a hat can come in handy if an older adult is visiting Middleton beach. It will protect their ears, neck, eyes, and entire face.
Stay in Shade
Shade offers one of the best eye protection mechanisms. Whenever an older adult with prescription lenses is out in the sun, they should always stand under an umbrella. They can also lay under trees or find other naturally shaded areas to reduce sun exposure. The shade will protect one's eyes from direct contact with the sun.
Key Takeaways
Older adults with eye problems often have prescription lenses. Having prescription glasses limits their chances of using sunglasses without compromising their vision. However, it does not mean there are no other means of protecting one's eyes during the summer. Older individuals can take full advantage of shades, clip-on, and hats.
Senior Helpers Frederick offers non-medical home care to older adults. Contact us for more information on alternatives to sunglasses for older persons with prescription lenses.