August is National Eye Exam Month, a perfect time to focus on the eye health of our seniors. As we age, our eyes endure various changes and may need extra care to maintain optimal health. Learn about the common eye problems older adults face and discover practical tips for managing them. Whether you are a senior or a family member caring for one, understanding these issues is necessary.
Common Eye Problems in Seniors
Dry eye, floaters, and presbyopia are three common eye problems in seniors to consider.
Dry Eye
Dry eye is one of the most common complaints among older adults. This condition occurs when the eyes can't create enough tears to keep them lubricated. Symptoms include a gritty sensation, burning, redness, and blurred vision. Managing dry eye involves several simple steps, such as using artificial tears to keep the eyes moist, installing a humidifier at home to add moisture to the air, and drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Floaters
Floaters are tiny spots or squiggles that float across your vision. They are usually harmless and caused by little clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous of the eye. However, if you experience a sudden increase in floaters, especially accompanied by flashes of light, indicates a more serious condition like a retinal detachment. In this case, seek immediate medical attention. To cope with floaters, try moving your eyes around often to shift the floaters out of your direct line of sight, or focus on something still to make them less noticeable.
Presbyopia
Presbyopia does not allow the eyes to focus on close objects. It's a common issue for people over the age of 40. Symptoms include trouble reading small print, having to hold textbooks and other reading material farther away to see it, and headaches when looking at items close up for too long. Presbyopia can be effectively managed through reading glasses or bifocals, and regular eye exams to update your prescription as needed.
Practical Tips for Maintaining Eye Health
Regular eye exams help catch issues early before they develop into more serious conditions. An eye exam can detect not only vision problems but also other health issues like diabetes and high blood pressure. Good lighting is also critical, especially for seniors, to reduce eye strain. Ensure that living spaces, especially reading areas, have bright, adjustable lighting.
As vision changes with age, keep eyeglass prescriptions current. Outdated prescriptions can lead to eye strain, headaches, and even accidents. A healthy lifestyle can also significantly impact your eye health:
- Diet and Nutrition: Enjoy a balanced diet that includes foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Vegetables and fruits are best.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking can worsen eye health and lead to conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration.
- Manage Chronic Conditions: Keep diseases like hypertension and diabetes under control, as they can adversely affect your eyes.
Maintain Your Eye Health With the Help of Senior Helpers Southeast Michigan
Eye health is an essential aspect of the well-being of seniors. This National Eye Exam Month, take time to understand and address common eye issues like dry eye, floaters, and presbyopia. Regular eye exams, proper lighting, and updated prescriptions are significant steps you can take today.
Senior Helpers Southeast Michigan is here to assist seniors in Canton, Westland, Farmington Hills, West Bloomfield, and Waterford. Contact us for support in maintaining your eye health and overall well-being. Your eyes deserve the best care, and we're here to help.