Many changes occur as people age, ranging from reduced physical strength to declining eyesight. Age-related eye changes such as presbyopia and cataracts do not necessarily signify the presence of eye disease. Loss of eye lens elasticity naturally occurs with age, leading to farsightedness. Some treatments can help correct eye issues. Here is how eyecare should change as you age.
Age-related Eye Diseases
While age-related eye changes may not signify a serious condition, many people suffer from serious eye diseases. Age-related eye diseases can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. They can cause vision loss and, in some cases, blindness. Common eye diseases that affect the elderly include macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. These eye conditions affect millions of individuals globally.
Age-related Vision Changes
Most people notice vision changes after turning 40. The changes are usually gradual, making it difficult to focus on close objects. The lens inside the eye hardens over time, resulting in a loss of focusing function (presbyopia). Most people compensate for this loss by holding reading materials further away, but eventually, it becomes necessary to wear eyeglasses. Your eye doctor may recommend reading glasses, multifocal eyeglasses, or multifocal contact lenses. Corrective surgery can also help correct the condition.
Age and Eye Structure
Apart from presbyopia, some changes occur in the eye structure and vision over time. The changes occur gradually, and most people do not notice the changes for years. They include:
- Pupil shrinkage
- Dry eyes
- Color vision loss
- Peripheral vision loss
- Vitreous detachment
Eyecare Changes as You Age
Age-related vision can affect the quality of life, making it difficult to perform certain tasks. There are things that you can do to lower your risk of experiencing vision loss. Eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight can help keep your eyes healthy. Regular exercise can help keep your body and mind in great shape, which will help protect your vision. Avoid smoking and schedule regular eye exams with your eye doctor. The doctor will help keep track of any changes you experience and recommend the best eyecare.
Aging and Low Vision
Low vision is a condition that affects many people as they age and cannot be corrected with lenses. People with low vision have difficulties performing everyday tasks such as reading. They may not see well enough to read street signs or recognize people’s faces. They do not find regular lighting adequate and require brighter lights. Eyecare professionals can recommend special aids that help people adapt to vision loss, such as magnifying devices. Getting brighter lighting, writing with bold markers, using motion lights, and using colored tape to mark stair edges can help. Use large-print labels to identify items and get a phone with a large screen. If you notice vision changes, schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Routine eye exams help maintain ocular health as your eye doctor can conduct a test to determine if you have low vision.For more on how eyecare should change as you age, visit Advanced Eyecare Center PC at our Urbandale, Iowa office. Call 515-303-4488 to schedule an appointment today.