Share:

Sight problems are a common part of getting older, but they shouldn’t be ignored. While some of these issues are related to natural aging processes, others may involve eye diseases that require professional treatment. To help you maintain clear vision throughout your golden years, here are a few important points to know about eye care and aging.

What Can Happen to Your Eyes Over Time?

Clouding of the Lens

More than half of adults over the age of 75 have cataracts—a problem that occurs when proteins clump together and cause the lens to develop a cloudy appearance. This issue doesn’t always affect sight, but if it does, the cataract can be surgically removed.

Muscle Weakening

With age, the small muscles that control the pupil will weaken. As a result, your pupil may not become as responsive to light, making it harder to see objects in the dark.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration

eye careA leading cause of vision loss among adults 60 and older is age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD occurs when the macula—found in the center of the retina—deteriorates, which impairs central vision. While the problem is irreversible, early treatments can help delay the effects of this eye disease.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is another leading form of vision loss that occurs when eye pressure increases and damages the optic nerve. While there is currently no cure, there are many treatments that can help protect you from these effects if this condition is detected early on.

How Can You Protect Your Vision?

Visit an eye care provider at least once a year for optical exams. These exams can catch eye diseases early on, allowing you more opportunities to treat the problem.

Talk to your optometrist or doctor about nutrients that support eye health. Omega 3-fatty acids, for example, can help protect the retina and curb dry eyes. Zinc is another important nutrient that can help prevent cataracts.

You should also avoid activities known to harm the eyes—such as smoking, drinking excessively, or not wearing UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors.

 

Protect your sight by visiting the professionals at Baldwin Optical. Performing comfortable and comprehensive eye exams in Foley, AL, this local optometrist takes care to assess the state of your vision fully and screen for common eye diseases. Depending on your needs, this eye care provider will introduce you to a variety of stress-free solutions to help you see better—including glasses and contact lenses. To learn more about these eye care services, visit this vision center online. For appointments, call (251) 210-3741.

tracking