With age come particular challenges for eye care. It’s natural for eye function to decline as you get older, and certain medical conditions can cause vision problems as well. As a senior, it’s important that you’re proactive in keeping your eyes as healthy as possible. Here are some easy tips that could make a real difference. 

5 Ways for Seniors to Practice Good Eye Care 

1. Eat the Right Foods 

Fish oils, collagen, leafy greens, and citrus are all great choices for strengthening your eyes and maintaining their function. Incorporate them into your diet as much as possible.

Additionally, treat yourself to sugary and starchy foods in moderation. They raise the risk that you’ll develop diabetes or high blood pressure, which can have adverse effects on eye health.  

2. Exercise Routinely 

Managing your weight through exercise is another important way to ward off diabetes and lower your blood pressure. Working out several times a week can also boost your immune system so that your body is more capable of fighting infections that could travel to your eyes. 

3. Use Eyewear 

It may be harder than usual for you to read or see distant objects. Don’t strain your eyes and worsen the problem; instead, get contact lenses or a pair of eyeglasses that you like.

Whenever you’re out in the sun, bring sunglasses to shield your eyes from UV rays. If you’re on a computer for long periods of time, wear protective glasses that promote eye care by filtering blue light emitted by screens. Take a break from digital devices every 20 minutes, too. 

4. Know What’s Unusual 

If you start experiencing floaters, occasional blurriness, halos or flashes of light, sudden pain, or peripheral blindness, see an eye doctor right away. These changes could indicate serious issues with your eye health, including retinal tears, cataracts, or gland dysfunction. You may need to adapt your eye care methods accordingly. 

5. Get Regular Eye Exams 

Visit an optometrist for an eye exam at least twice a year, even if nothing seems to be wrong. This way, they’re more likely to discover ocular diseases or other problems in the early stages and treat them before they get worse. This is especially important if you already have a medical condition that can impact your eyes, such as diabetes, liver disease, shingles, or high blood pressure. 

For professional eye care and more advice about how to keep your eyes healthy as a senior, visit Daniel J. Kroger OD in West Chester, OH. With more than 25 years of experience and a commitment to fusing top-notch customer service with affordability, he’ll ensure you always receive exactly the treatment you need. He prioritizes personalized and solutions-oriented care for all his patients using only the most up-to-date techniques and equipment. Make an appointment today by calling (513) 777-3936 or sending a message online.