4 Eye-Opening Facts About Aging Eyes And Vision Problems

Most Americans know that aging eyes and vision problems go hand in hand. In other words, vision problems begin to increase as they age.

What they may not realize is that reduced vision quality is also linked to a higher frequency of falls, injuries, and depression.

Eye disorders such as cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration can rob seniors of their independence.

Here are some facts about aging eyes and vision problems that you should know. The tips in this article will help you to maintain eye health and vision while aging gracefully.

Aging Eye and Vision Problems Fact 1: Many people can avoid vision loss as they age

Losing sight as you age should not be considered an inevitability. WHO states that 80% of blindness is preventable if the disease or condition causing it is diagnosed and treated in time.

Many people find that they need reading glasses as they get older. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in six seniors has a vision impairment that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses.

This may be caused by common eye conditions and diseases, including:

Cataract; a clouding of the eye’s lens.
Glaucoma; a disease that can rob the eye of its peripheral vision.
Age-related macular degeneration; the deterioration of the central vision that is responsible for the ability to see fine details clearly.

With proper preventive care and timely treatment, many seniors can avoid permanent vision loss due to these diseases.

Aging Eye and Vision Fact 2: Eye exams are key to healthy vision

Many eye diseases and conditions have few or no noticeable symptoms until vision has already been lost. Therefore, it’s important to keep up with regular examinations.
By age 40, a person should have obtained a baseline comprehensive medical eye exam. By age 65, eye exams should be scheduled every one to two years, or as recommended by an ophthalmologist.

Ophthalmologists specialize in the diagnosis and medical and surgical treatment of all eye diseases and conditions.

Finding an ophthalmologist can be easy

There are approximately 18,000 ophthalmologists across the United States.

For seniors concerned about the cost of seeing an ophthalmologist, EyeCare America, a national public service program of the Foundation for the American Academy of Ophthalmology, is available to ensure seniors have access to the eye care they need.

The program matches eligible seniors who haven’t seen an ophthalmologist in three or more years with one of more than 6,000 volunteer ophthalmologists who provide them with a comprehensive eye exam and care. These volunteers offer services often at no out-of-pocket cost for up to one year. To see if you, your friends, or family members are eligible, visit the Eyecareamerica website.

A healthy body also benefits your eyes

Here are a few tips to help care for your eyes between exams:

Eat well. Ensure you include citrus fruits, vegetable oils, nuts, whole grains, dark green leafy vegetables, and cold water fish in your diet.
Exercise regularly. Not only does it help your heart, waistline, and energy levels, but 30 minutes of physical exercise a day will also benefit your eyes.
Wear sunglasses. Sunglasses protect the eyes from cataracts and even eyelid cancers, so make sure you wear them, especially during the summer, when at the beach or in the water when participating in winter sports, and when taking medications that increase your sensitivity to light.
Don’t smoke. Smoking increases your risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, as well as risks for cardiovascular diseases that indirectly influence the health of your eyes.