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With age comes a variety of changes in physical health—and your eyes are no exception. But while you can expect a general decline in vision as you get older, there are many steps you can take to maintain your sight. By visiting an optometrist for regular eye exams, you can catch—and address—many age-related eye problems, including the following conditions.

Common Eye Problems Associated With Aging

Presbyopia

Presbyopia is a condition in which seeing details up close is difficult. For instance, you may notice that it’s harder to read a book up close. According to the American Optometric Association, this issue starts to develop between 40 and 60 years old and continues to progress with age. While presbyopia is a normal sign of aging, your eye doctor can help you see better by prescribing prescription lenses—such as bifocals.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration

optometristAge-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss among people age 50 or older, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). With AMD, the center of the retina—known as the macula—becomes damaged and progressively impairs central vision. Since AMD can progress at different rates, it’s important to discuss treatment options with an optometrist.  

Cataracts

Cataracts refer to a clouding of the eye caused by excess protein in the lens. This eye problem is believed to affect nearly half of all adults by the time they turn 80, says the NIH. In some cases, cataracts will not cause serious vision problems. However, if cloudiness causes vision to become blurry or hazy, surgery may be necessary to remove the cataract.

Glaucoma

Although any person can develop glaucoma, it most commonly appears in older adults. This condition occurs when the pressure within the eye increases. As glaucoma progresses, the pressure can affect the optic nerve and cause vision loss or total blindness. While there is no cure for glaucoma, the Glaucoma Research Foundation says medication and surgery can prevent further vision loss. Since this ocular disease produces little to no symptoms early on, protecting yourself against glaucoma requires routine screening from your optometrist.   

Peripheral Vision Loss

Peripheral vision loss—or inability to maintain a full scope of vision—is common among older adults, particularly those that have glaucoma. While this eye problem can be a natural sign of aging, it should be routinely monitored by an optometrist, as it may make driving unsafe. 

 

While regular eye exams are important for people of all ages, they should occur more frequently—about once a year—among older adults. If you’re a senior, Progressive Vision Group PA is equipped to detect and treat many age-related eye problems. Known for their patient-first attitude, this High Point, NC, eye care center will care for your ocular health in the most comfortable, effective way possible. To learn more about their services, visit this local optometrist online. For appointments, call (336) 841-2028.

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