How Often Should Seniors Get Their Eyes Checked? And 5 Other Tips for Senior Eye Health
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that seniors should have their vision screened at least annually. Optometrists might recommend seeing the elderly every two years, depending on how much they smoke, whether they wear contact lenses, or if they have certain eye conditions. These screenings include measuring your eyesight using the Snellen chart (a standardized visual acuity test) and refraction (the process of correcting optical errors).
Seniors should get an eyeexam at least once every two years or more often if recommended. They should also schedule annual dilated eye tests. During the checkups, doctors can ask about lifestyle habits and smoking history. It is best if seniors do not wait until they feel something is wrong before setting up an appointment for an eye exam. Here's how seniors can stay in good eye health;
- Seniors Should Eat Vegetables High in Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant that helps prevent macular degeneration, retinal damage, cataracts, and dry eye. Most fruits and vegetables naturally contain beta-carotene (vitamin A's precursor). However, others have plenty of preformed vitamin A. Good sources include dark green leafy vegetables, sweet potatoes, carrots, squash, pumpkin, winter melon, cantaloupe, papaya, broccoli, spinach, and kale. Other non-vegetable sources include liver, milk, eggs, cheese, butter, and shrimp.
- It is Best if the Elderly Exercise Regularly
While exercise alone won't eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses, it helps with proper muscle tone, circulation, balance, and bone density. Exercise boosts blood flow, which keeps the eyes nourished and bright. If seniors start exercising regularly at any age and have eye problems, their chances of experiencing severe problems later reduce significantly.
- Seniors Should Check Their Prescriptions
Your elderly loved ones should make sure their prescriptions match what they need. If they're having trouble seeing clearly, they can talk to their doctor about whether glasses would help. Additionally, asking their optometrist about any options for bifocals or progressive lenses would be helpful. These solutions can help them see without squinting.
- Elder Loved Ones Should Be Aware of Medications
Taking some prescription and over-the-counter drugs can affect eyesight. These include aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, warfarin, tetracycline, antihistamines, topical antibiotics, and antidepressants. It is best if seniors read labels carefully and talk with their doctor before starting any new medication regimen.
- Limit Exposure to Blue Light
Blue light exposure from computer screens and phones may increase the risk of early age-related macular degeneration(AMD). It promotes the production of oxidative damage in cells, which can lead to premature aging and vision problems. To keep their eyes safe, seniors should use amber light filters on devices and wear sunglasses with UV protection whenever possible.
Seniors Can Practice Good Vision Care With a Companion
Many people think their vision is still good even after 40 years of age, but that doesn't mean they're safe from developing severe conditions. Regular visits to the physician for routine eye exams are helpful as a preventative measure for seniors. Senior Helpers Evansville offers home visits, transportation, personal care, and medication reminders as some of the services tailored to each senior's unique needs.
At Senior Helpers Evansville, we make your loved one's experience at home as comfortable and fulfilling as possible. Our top-of-the-line personalized senior living options and unmatched caregiving services ensure seniors get everything they need in one place.
Contact us at 812-423-0999 within Evansville, Newburgh, Mount Vernon, and Boonville for an in-home assessment for personal care. Our dedication to our patients shows compassion in our services.