Aging is a natural process of life transformation, and our bodies undergo various changes as we get older. One of the most noticeable areas where change can be observed is in our vision. Most senior citizens find their vision does not stay as sharp as before. Why is that, and what can be done to prevent it?
Why Does Vision Change with Age?
With increased age, there are specific causes that lead to change in our sight:
- Flexibility of Lens Decreases: The lens inside our eye loses flexibility, thus focusing on objects nearby is becoming tougher. Presbyopia is the term given to this situation.
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- Pupil Size Decreases: The muscles controlling our pupils weaken, making them smaller and less responsive to light changes. This becomes harder for us to do in poor light.
- Dry Eyes: With increasing age, tear secretion reduces, resulting in dry eyes and discomfort in the eyes and leading to blurred vision.
- Yellowing of the Lens: The lens becomes slightly yellow, impairing color vision, particularly the ability to distinguish between shades of green and blue.
Read Also: How to Improve Eyesight Naturally? Eye Care Tips
What are some common eye problems in old age?
Some eye diseases become more common with age:
1. Cataracts
Cataracts involve the clouding of the natural lens of the eye, causing fuzzy or blurry vision. The disease is formed gradually and can prevent reading, driving, or recognizing facial expressions.
2. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD impacts the macula, which is the region of the retina responsible for assisting with clear central vision. AMD may cause a cloudy patch in the path of central vision and, in more advanced cases, result in loss of central vision.
3. Glaucoma
Glaucoma is high eye pressure, which may injure the optic nerve. It’s also sometimes referred to as the “silent thief of sight” because it can advance with no apparent symptoms until a significant amount of vision has been lost.
4. Diabetic Retinopathy
It’s a condition that affects diabetic patients and entails injury to the blood vessels of the retina. It can lead to vision loss if not treated effectively.
5. Presbyopia
As explained above, presbyopia is the progressive loss of the eye’s ability to focus on near objects, typically after the age of 40.
Read Also: Protect Your Eyesight: Key Vitamins And Supplements For Healthy Vision
Why Do Older People Suffer from Blurry Vision?
Blurry vision among older adults can result from a variety of factors:
- Refractive Errors: Changes in the shape of the eye can lead to nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
- Cataracts: As cataracts develop, they tend to make the vision hazy or blurry.
- Macular Degeneration: AMD may lead to the gradual loss of central vision, making reading or identifying faces difficult.
- Dry Eyes: Decreased tear production may make the eyes feel gritty and the eyesight blurry at times.
Read Also: WHAT IS DRY EYE SYNDROME: CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, RISK FACTORS, TREATMENT
How Can You Protect Your Eyes from Aging?
Aging is inevitable, but there are some things you can do to take care of your eyes:
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Regular Eye Examinations
Regular comprehensive eye exams can identify issues early, even before symptoms show up. Early identification is important for glaucoma and AMD.
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Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating foods that are high in antioxidants, like leafy greens, fish, and fruits, can help promote eye health. Lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C, and omega-3 fatty acids are especially helpful.
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Shield Your Eyes from UV Light
Wearing 100% UVA and UVB protection sunglasses can prevent damage from long-term sun exposure.
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Manage Chronic Diseases
Chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension may have adverse effects on vision. Managing them with medication, diet, and timely follow-ups is of utmost importance.
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Stay Physically Fit
Exercise every day to increase blood circulation, which in turn may benefit the eyes by providing them with adequate oxygen and nutrients.
What Are the Best Eye Vitamins for Older Adults?
Some vitamins and nutrients have been associated with improved eye health:
- Vitamin C and E: Antioxidants that shield the eyes from harm.
- Lutein and Zeaxanthin: Green leafy vegetables contain them, which filter out damaging blue light.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish such as salmon, they promote retinal health.
- Zinc: Maintains the health of the retina and can slow AMD progression.
Before taking any supplements, speak with a medical provider to make sure they are right for you.
When Should You Seek Immediate Medical Attention?
Occasionally, vision issues may be a sign of serious health issues. Get immediate help if you notice:
- Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes
- Sudden flashes of light or floaters
- Eye or area around eye pain
- Double vision
- Redness or swelling, particularly if it is sudden
- Halos of light around sources of light, which may indicate glaucoma
These signs can indicate such conditions as retinal detachment, acute glaucoma, or optic nerve injury, all of which must be treated urgently.
What Are Some Eye-Friendly Foods for Seniors?
Your diet is a major factor in healthy eyes. Below are some vision-friendly foods:
- Carrots – high in beta-carotene
- Spinach and kale – loaded with lutein and zeaxanthin
- Citrus fruits – loaded with vitamin C
- Fish such as salmon and sardines – rich in omega-3s
- Eggs – loaded with zinc, lutein, and vitamin A
- Almonds and walnuts – contain vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids
- A rainbow of colorful food keeps your eyes bright and healthy!
What’s the Best Eye Care for Older Adults?
Establishing a daily routine can maintain your vision as you get older. Here is an easy routine to follow:
- Begin the day with water – maintains eyes’ moisture
- Wear sunglasses when outdoors – even on cloudy days
- Have a healthy breakfast – include some fruit or vegetables
- Rest your eyes every hour – glance away from screens
- Clean your glasses and wash your face before bed
- Use eye drops if your eyes feel dry (as directed)
- And most of all, don’t neglect regular eye checkups – preferably once a year after age 60.
Can Eye Exercises Help Preserve Vision?
Eye exercises aren’t able to correct severe vision issues, but they can limit eye strain and maintain eye muscles more limber.
Try these:
- 20-20-20 Rule: Look at a point 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.
- Shifting focus: Alternate focus from near to far points.
- Blink more often: Particularly during use of digital screens to avoid dryness.
- Eye rolls: Slowly roll your eyes around in circles to relax.
They are small changes that can change a lot for comfort and vigilance.
Conclusion
Your eyes get older along with the rest of your body. Although some vision changes are natural, numerous severe eye problems can be avoided or treated if care is sought early enough.
Don’t neglect minor changes in your eyesight. With proper care and attention, you can maintain healthy eyes and continue to appreciate the beauty of life—regardless of your age!
If you notice changes in your eyesight, don’t delay. Consult an experienced eye expert and take the first step toward safeguarding your vision. Your eyes are worth it.
