Eye health and vision problems become more of a concern as we age. However, these changes don’t have to affect your lifestyle. Knowing the early signs of eye troubles is important in protecting your vision. These signs could be anything from blurry vision and dry eyes to light sensitivity. Regular eye exams and some easy lifestyle changes can help you maintain good eye health and vision as you age. Learn the effects of age on vision, signs of eye issues and how to address them.
Effects of Age on Vision
While growing older doesn’t always lead to poor vision, age can often bring changes that affect our eyes. For instance, the lenses become less flexible and clear, and the proteins in them can break down. Tear production also tends to decline, causing dry eyes.
Health issues affecting other parts of the body can also impact vision. For instance, people with diabetes or high blood pressure, and individuals taking medications with eye-related side effects, are at the greatest risk of developing vision problems. These eye problems can impact everyday life — making it challenging to read fine details or small print, causing headaches or making it difficult to see at night.
7 Early Signs of Eye Issues in Older Adults
As we age, understanding eye diseases and issues that could lead to vision loss is important. Blurriness, eyestrain and dry eye are among the more noticeable early signs of vision problems. Recognizing them can help you prevent more serious issues and maintain a healthy, independent life.
1. Floaters or Flashes of Light
Floaters are small spots or flecks that drift across your field of vision. Seeing them occasionally is common, but if you suddenly notice more floaters or start seeing flashes of light, this could be an early sign of a retinal problem. You’ll want to see an eye care professional as soon as you notice frequent floaters or flashes of light. Prompt treatment can help address any underlying conditions and prevent vision loss.
2. Dry Eye
Dry eye can feel like an itching, gritty or burning sensation in your eye, and it becomes more common with age. It happens when your eyes stop producing enough tears or no longer produce good-quality tears. You’ll want to see your doctor if you notice these problems because they could become more severe and lead to corneal damage and vision issues. Artificial tears and other treatments can provide relief.
3. Eyestrain or Tired Eyes
If it’s becoming more difficult to see close objects or read small print without straining, it’s probably time to visit your eye doctor. Bifocals or reading glasses can help you in these instances, preventing your eyes from tiring due to too much strain. Taking regular breaks when you’re working on something up close and keeping proper lighting in your home can also keep you from straining your eyes too often.
4. Cloudy or Blurry Vision
Cloudy or blurry vision can be a sign of cataracts, a common issue that occurs as we age. It causes the eye’s lens to become opaque, which can gradually affect your vision and make it hard to see clearly. Fortunately, if you catch the problem in time, cataract surgery is a safe and effective solution to restore your vision. Consult your eye doctor, who can perform a comprehensive eye exam and offer treatment options.
5. Trouble Telling Colors Apart
An early warning sign of eye issues is difficulty distinguishing colors. This could happen for numerous reasons or stem from various eye conditions, like macular degeneration or optic nerve issues. If you notice a change in how you perceive colors, visit your eye doctor right away for a thorough evaluation. Early detection and treatment can help preserve your color vision and overall eye health.
6. Tunnel Vision
Tunnel vision, or the loss of peripheral vision, can be a sign of glaucoma, a condition that damages the optic nerve. Glaucoma often develops gradually and without noticeable symptoms, making regular eye exams crucial to diagnose it early on. If left untreated, it can lead to irreversible vision loss. An eye doctor can do a comprehensive glaucoma screening and help you manage the condition to maintain good vision and eye health.
7. Light Sensitivity
Some older adults also become more sensitive to bright lights and glare. For instance, common issues include trouble seeing well in dim lighting or when going from a bright-lit room to a dark one. When you notice an increase in light sensitivity, it could be a symptom of eye conditions, such as cataracts and corneal problems. Your eye doctor can evaluate the issue, determine if it’s a health condition and help you manage light sensitivity.
Common Eye Problems in Adults and Seniors
There are a few eye conditions to be aware of as we age. While they may not always occur, knowing how they develop and what to watch for can help you get quick treatment for your eye health.
Cataracts: Causes and Symptoms
Cataracts are caused by the proteins in our eye lenses breaking down and clumping together. It reduces light transmission and causes the eyes to cloud up. While aging is the main cause, too much sun exposure, diabetes, smoking and a family history of cataracts increase the risk of developing this condition. Certain medications can also contribute, such as steroids used to treat arthritis or allergies.
Glaucoma and Macular Degeneration Risks
Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, while macular degeneration affects the central part of the retina. These are both serious conditions that can lead to vision loss. Seeing your doctor as soon as you notice symptoms can slow their progression and help preserve your vision.
Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina. Symptoms can range from mild vision changes like floaters and blurred vision to severe vision loss and blindness. If you have diabetes, controlling your blood sugar levels can help prevent diabetic retinopathy. Regular eye exams and, sometimes, laser surgery or certain medications can also prevent vision loss from this condition.
The Role of Optometry in Eye Health
Regular eye care is essential as we age. While some vision issues can be corrected with glasses, more serious conditions might require medical or surgical intervention. Early detection with annual checkups can help you manage health conditions and protect your eye health. The American Optometric Association recommends yearly eye examinations for everyone over 60 to identify potential issues early on.
Supporting Seniors With Poor Eye Health
If an older adult in your life is experiencing eye troubles, there are numerous ways you can help support them and their quality of life. Home care for poor eye health is essential, such as keeping a well-lit, clutter-free home so they can safely navigate the house and see better without the risk of trips and falls.
A family caregiver can also offer help for older adults with eye issues — assisting your loved one with daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, bathing and navigating the home safely and comfortably.
Turn to Village Caregiving for Compassionate In-Home Care
While it’s common to experience vision troubles as we get older, regular eye exams and lifestyle changes can help protect your vision and maintain independence. A family caregiver can also help you age comfortably from home. At Village Caregiving, our family caregivers will provide custom services that address your unique needs. We can assist you if you’re experiencing vision problems, helping you with daily tasks, creating a comfortable environment and preventing hazards in the home for your safety.
We look forward to designing a personalized care plan alongside you and your family. Contact us today to learn more about our in-home support services.
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