According to a recent survey, two out of three Americans believe that vision loss is common as we age. Aging is one of the reasons why our eyes change but vision loss is not always associated. Aging adults need to watch out for the changes and follow steps that can protect their eyesight.
These are the following common signs of aging eyes:
- It is common to have a refractive error which is presbyopia or farsightedness as we age. After the age of 40, close-up activities are difficult to perform such as reading the fine print. Reading glasses is recommended to help.
- Aging adults have a longer time in adjusting and focusing in the dark than usual. Studies have shown that rod cells weaken as we get old. Rod cells are the ones responsible for low light vision.
- In older adults, they develop dry eyes because they tend to produce fewer tears. It is better to check with your ophthalmologist to determine the best treatment.
- Loss of contrast sensitivity is common with low vision because objects start to blend into backgrounds of similar color.
- Due to the hormonal change that occurs as we age, blepharitis is common.
- The substance that fills the middle of our eye or the vitreous part shrinks or thickens as we get older. When this occurs, floaters in our vision may be present which is usually harmless but let your ophthalmologist know.
- When flashes of light appear occasionally in your vision, it is a sign of aging. If the frequency increased, discuss it with your ophthalmologist.
What Are the Eye Diseases You May Encounter as You Age?
A cataract is one of the common eye diseases that you may develop as you age. Cataracts make your lens cloudy which gives you a hard time to see properly.
Age-related macular degeneration usually occurs when you are over the age of 50. Central vision will decline in the late stage of the disease.
Glaucoma is common in senior adults which affects the optic nerve that can lead to blindness if not treated immediately.
What Are the Ways to Protect Your Eyes?
Make sure that you have a general health check-up and routine eye exams to detect any health problems that can affect your vision. Family history plays a role in protecting your eyes because you may be at risk of serious eye diseases.
Live a healthy life by exercising, eating nutritious foods, and taking vitamins to reduce the risk of obesity or diabetes which can protect your eyes. Use low vision tools to help you in daily activities when you experience vision loss from an eye disease.
