Vision is one of our most important senses, and maintaining healthy vision is important to many people. Regardless of age, a person
should always aim to schedule regular check-ups with vision doctors because they are able to offer a comprehensive exam that will not only determine what the condition of a person's vision is, but also will check for common eye diseases. However, with the pace of everyday life the majority of Americans forget to schedule such appointments. So, Senior Helpers of San Luis Obispo County is here to offer some easy tips and tricks people can use in the comfort of their own homes to check their own vision, and strive to maintain vision health! These can be done alone, or with the help of a trained Senior Helpers caregiver.
A very simple and useful thing people can do in their own home is to administer their own vision test. A great website to use for this is Vision Source. (Link to Vision Source printable vision test) One can download and print out a free vision test chart to use, and the website has detailed instructions how to implement the test as well as analyze the results, written in a clear and easy-to-understand fashion. It is suggested that a person checks their vision with a test like this once a year, though it's not a bad idea to do this semi-annually, or even quarterly. It does not take much time at all, and will give a person valuable insight into the state of their vision.
Also, a person can visit Essilor's website to find out more about specific eye conditions including Myopia, Hyperopia, Far Vision, Near Vision, Astigmatism, and Daltonism as well as access to tests to determine if they are living with any of these. These tests can be found at the following web address: Essilor Vision Tests
Another great source for vision tests can be found in the iTunes app store, for those owning Apple devices such as iPhones, iPods, or iPads. There is an app, free to download, called Vision Test (link to Vision Test in the App Store). Please note, that for the distance test, a person will need two devices, one of them being an iPad to be set at a certain distance away, and an iPhone connected to it through the app to record input from the user. This app is great for vision tests because it can be used on the go.
Finally, AllAboutVision.com offers a free Amsler test, which tests for macular degeneration. The link to the test can be found here: Amsler Test. While the website says that an eye-care professional should be consulted for a more accurate test, this is a great first step for finding out about the condition of one's macula. Early diagnosis means early treatment, and can effectively slow or prevent the gradual deterioration of vision.
While these tests may not give results with the accuracy and detail of a trained vision doctor, they can be quite helpful in alerting someone of the need to go see a vision doctor to address potential vision problems, and preventative measures may then be taken to preserve eye health!
If you would like to learn more about dependable in-home help for the elderly and the many benefits of professional senior care at home or dementia and Alzheimer’s care, call Senior Helpers of San Luis Obispo County to speak to a senior care specialist today 805-461-5892! The compassionate senior care specialists at Senior Helpers can also guide you through the process of receiving the Veterans Administration Aid and Attendance Benefit if your elderly loved one is a veteran. In-home senior care and in-home assisted living allows your loved one to stay in the comforts of their own home for as long as possible while receiving the level of care they need. Senior Helpers of San Luis Obispo County provides a wide range of services including Alzheimer’s and dementia care, personal assistance, companionship, and so much more to all areas of San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, Atascadero, Arroyo Grande, Cambria, and surrounding areas.
Cited sources for this article: Vision Source Eye Care, Essilor, All About Vision