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~ by Richard Sgaglio
One of the downsides of aging is the lessening of our ability to see small print or make out objects in the dark. We may have to reach for our reading glasses when reading a menu in a dimly lit restaurant. That’s a normal process called presbyopia when you can’t see small print clearly. It progresses slowly and is easy to correct with reading glasses. A small flashlight or cell phone light can come in handy, too.
Night blindness is another common issue we experience as we age. The natural process of aging affects our ability to see, and more importantly, to react to visual stimuli in low light situations. This can be caused by impaired function of the rods in the retina. Some studies indicate that night blindness, or nyctalopia, may be caused by a vitamin A deficiency, but in many cases its simply part of aging so many older adults don’t like to drive after dark.
In situations with a lot of light, some people experience something called “eye floaters”. According to the Mayo Clinic, these are small specks that drift across your field of sight that are noticeable in bright rooms or outdoors on a sunny days. Mostly normal, they can indicate a serious eye problem if they appear suddenly. When they are accompanied by a flash of light, it could mean that your retina might be detached from the back of your eye. In that case, it’s prudent to visit your eye doctor right away.
Women are especially prone to experience dry eyes after menopause, but men may notice it, too. You can try over-the-counter artificial tears or a humidifier in your home. If itching or burning becomes uncomfortable, your eye doctor can prescribe prescription drops.
The opposite can occur when your eyes make too many tears. This affects people who are sensitive to light, wind, or changes in temperature. Sunglasses are the first defense, but if the condition persists, it might be a sign of infection.
According to The National Library of Medicine, other serious eye conditions associated with aging are cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration. Cataracts appear like a coating of film over all or part of your eye. This blocks the lens and makes it harder for light to get through. Sometimes the cataracts stay small and unobtrusive, but if they cause irritation, your doctor can remove them with surgery.
Glaucoma is a disease that affects the fluid around eye’s optic nerve causing pressure to build up. Those annoying tests that you undergo during your annual visit to the eye doctor can identify an issue before it becomes a problem. If glaucoma is unchecked, it can lead to permanent vision loss.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most serious, and the most prevalent, eye disease. It refers to deterioration of the central portion of the retina that occurs with age. It affects central vision more than side vision. Symptoms include distorted vision or objects that appear differently in size or color from right eye to left eye. Currently considered incurable, it is the leading cause of vision loss among older people, more than cataracts and glaucoma combined. Cigarette smoking doubles the risk of developing macular degeneration.
So many of the guidelines for ensuring general health and well-being as we age apply to caring for our eyes. A healthy, well-balanced diet, regular exercise, sun protection, and avoiding cigarette smoke are important daily habits. Our eyes need rest like the rest of our bodies. Get plenty of sleep and take frequent breaks from your computer screen throughout the day. Above all, schedule regular appointments with your eye doctor so you can always see your best. Healthy aging includes your eyes, so do all you can to help protect your vision.
If you or a loved one needs help with home care for seniors, memory care, skilled nursing, or assisted living, please contact The Osborn.
The information in the above article is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.