Healthy Aging: Care Tips for Aging Eyes

Aging can bring changes to eyesight and diseases like cataracts and glaucoma. According to the CDC, people aged 65 years and above are more vulnerable to eye infections and diseases. Our team at Vision Professionals of Leawood can help manage eye conditions that come with age through routine eye exams and treatments. Check out these four practical tips to improve the health of aging eyes.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help you avoid obesity and other health issues that could bring about changes in eyesight. A few practices that can help you maintain healthy eyesight as you age include the following:

• Protect your eyes from direct sunlight by wearing glasses – excess UV increases the rate of cataracts and macular degeneration
• Eat well – take a balanced diet with nutrients like omega 3, vitamin C, and zinc to avoid macular degeneration
• Manage diabetes and other chronic illnesses
• Avoid smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol – smoking increases the risk of developing cataracts
• Get 7 to 9 hours of sleep
• Stay hydrated

The eye is a small component of the body, so the overall health of the body affects it. Limit sugars, eat more vegetables, and focus on your well-being.

Watch Out for Symptoms of Sight Changes

Common sight changes include blurry vision, mild or severe pain in your eyes, sensitive eyes, or even total vision loss. Some of the problems may not imply something serious, but it’s advisable to visit an optometrist whenever you feel there is a problem. An eye doctor should undertake a comprehensive exam and recommend the best tips for managing aging eyes.

Observe Regular Eye Care and Examination

Visit your eye doctor for routine eye exams at least two times a year. During the checkups, your optometry expert will check your eyes for any issues, even if you don’t have any signs. Cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions that come with age develop with time, and many people don’t realize they have them until it becomes serious. Any disease that can cause neurological issues will be detected when it’s early.

Follow Your Optometrist's Advice

Chances are your eye doctor will give you a few eye care tips or even medication to take wherever you go for examination or treatment. Whether its eye drops, ointments, or any other drugs, you should follow the prescription well to avoid the problem from recurring. Continue with your medication and other eye care practices even if you start to feel well.

Contact Vision Professionals of Leawood

Aging is inevitable and there’s no doubt you will experience eyesight changes with time. However, caring for your eyes and being conscious can help you maintain your eyesight for an extended period. If you would like to know more about eye care or to schedule an appointment, contact Vision Professionals of Leawood; your reliable eye care in Leawood. We offer comprehensive eye exams and quality eye care services. Call us today at (913) 239-9446 to learn more.