Like the rest of our bodies, our eyes need a little extra care as we age. Eye strain, for example, can grow more common, and many seniors may struggle to deal with those symptoms. Avoiding eye strain can not only help you avoid future eye problems, it can also allow you to enjoy your daily life more fully.
What Is Eye Strain?
Eye strain, also known as asthenopia, is a common condition that occurs when your eyes get tired from intense use, such as staring at digital screens or driving long distances. With age, our eyes naturally lose some of their flexibility and moisture, making them more prone to strain. Common symptoms include sore, tired, burning, or itchy eyes, headaches, difficulty focusing, and increased sensitivity to light.
Eye Strain in Seniors With Corrective Lenses
You might be wondering, "I've worn glasses or contacts for years, so why am I suddenly experiencing eye strain?" The answer lies in the aging process. In our older years, our eyes undergo changes, and our vision is likely to evolve. Even with corrective lenses, you could experience eye strain if your prescription is outdated or if you're using your glasses for the wrong activities—for example, using your distance glasses when reading. Therefore, it's crucial to have regular eye exams to ensure your prescription stays up-to-date.
Tips to Avoid Eye Strain
There are several strategies you can use to avoid or reduce eye strain.
Taking Breaks
Taking breaks from prolonged visual tasks can significantly reduce eye strain. If you're reading or looking at a screen, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It helps relax the focusing muscle inside the eye.
Environmental Awareness
Next, consider your environment. Good lighting is key in avoiding eye strain, as your eyes won't have to work as hard to see. Avoid directly facing windows when reading or using a screen, as it can cause glare that strains the eyes. If needed, use shades or curtains to reduce glare.
Blinking
It's also essential to remember to blink often, especially when doing concentrated visual tasks. Blinking provides your eyes with much-needed moisture. Additionally, adopting simple eye exercises can help by strengthening your eye muscles and maintaining flexibility.
Diet
Maintaining a balanced diet is another key strategy. Foods rich in vitamins A, C, E, and zinc can help maintain healthy eyes.
The Importance of Regular Eye Check-ups
Routine eye check-ups are vital for detecting early signs of eye strain and other age-related eye conditions. It's recommended for seniors to have their eyes checked at least once every year. Regular check-ups can help in tracking changes in your vision and updating your glasses or contact lens prescriptions when needed.
Receive Senior Care at Home
At Senior Helpers Greater Puyallup, we understand the importance of maintaining good eye health as you age. We're committed to providing useful information and making life more comfortable for our seniors. Our services span across Auburn, Federal Way, Pacific, Sumner, and Tacoma. Reach out to us to learn more about our range of home care services and the support they can offer, including help with visual tasks that may improve your quality of life.