Eyesight is precious, especially for seniors. Proper care of your eyeglasses and contact lenses can make a massive difference in your vision and overall eye health. Not only will this ensure optimal vision, but it will also prolong the life of your eyewear. Senior Helpers Orlando will discuss practical tips for cleaning, storing, and replacing your eyeglasses and contact lenses.
Regular Cleaning
Keeping your eyeglasses clean is important for clear vision. Use appropriate cleaning solutions, such as special lens cleaners available at most optical stores. These solutions are designed to clean effectively without damaging the lenses or coatings. Avoid harmful substances like household cleaners or soap, as these can scratch or damage the coatings on your lenses.
To clean your glasses properly, start by rinsing them in lukewarm water to remove dust and dirt. Then, apply a small amount of lens cleaner to each lens and gently rub it with your fingertips. Finally, rinse again and dry with a clean microfiber cloth.
Cleaning Contact Lenses
Contact lenses also require daily cleaning to ensure they are safe to wear. Establish a daily cleaning routine by always washing your hands with soap and water and drying them with a lint-free towel before touching your lenses. This reduces the risk of transferring dirt or germs to your lenses.
Always use the contact lens solution recommended by your eye doctor. Other solutions might not clean thoroughly or could harm your eyes. Never use tap water or other contaminants, as tap water can contain microbes that are harmful to your eyes. Always use the proper lens solution for cleaning and storing your contacts.
Proper Storage
Proper storage protects your eyeglasses from accidental damage. Always place your glasses in a hard protective case when you're not wearing them to prevent scratches and other damage. Avoid high temperatures and direct sunlight, as heat and sunlight can warp the frames and damage the lens coatings. Store your glasses in a cool, dry place.
Proper storage for contact lenses is important, too. Make sure your contact lens case is clean and always filled with fresh solution. Never reuse old solutions. Lens cases should be replaced every three months to prevent contamination. Always cover your lens case to avoid exposure to air and contaminants.
Timely Replacements
Eyeglasses need to be replaced periodically to ensure good vision. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as scratched lenses, bent frames, or loose screws, which indicate it's time for a replacement. Regular eye exams will ensure your prescription is up-to-date. If you notice your vision is blurry or you're straining to see, schedule a visit to your eye doctor.
Following a replacement schedule is critical for contact lens wearers. Disposable lenses come with specific replacement intervals – daily, bi-weekly, or monthly. Stick to this schedule to avoid discomfort and infections. If your lenses feel uncomfortable, cause redness, or you notice a decline in vision quality, it's time for a replacement.
Handling Damage or Loss
Sometimes accidents happen, and eyeglasses can get damaged or lost. If you have an old pair of glasses, use them temporarily until you can replace the damaged ones. Sometimes, a professional can fix minor damage, so take your glasses to your optician for an assessment.
Losing or damaging a contact lens can be inconvenient. Always have a pair of glasses as a backup for situations like this. If you lose or damage your contacts, let your eye doctor know. They can provide advice or replacement lenses.
Senior Helpers Provides Custom Care Services for Seniors
Caring for your eyeglasses and contact lenses is important for maintaining clear vision and eye health. By following the tips above for regular cleaning, proper storage, and timely replacements, you can ensure that your eyewear remains functional and comfortable. If you need any assistance with senior care in Orlando, Winter Park, Apopka, or Kissimmee, contact us at Senior Helpers Orlando. We're here to help you maintain your independence and well-being.