As we age, our bodies undergo various changes—that’s normal—and our vision is no exception! Understanding common eye problems that may come with age can help you and your loved ones maintain clear vision and protect your eye health for the long haul.
Regular eye exams are crucial in protecting your vision, as they help detect potential issues early on. Eye exams can help detect and treat these 4 vision problems that are common with age:
- Presbyopia
- Cataracts
- Age-related macular degeneration
- Glaucoma
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your vision. Being aware of potential eye health issues and paying attention to changes in your vision can help you prevent small issues from compromising your eyesight long-term.
Presbyopia
Presbyopia is a natural part of the aging process, typically starting between ages 40 and 45. It’s characterized by a gradual loss of the eye’s ability to focus on close objects, making tasks like reading or sewing more challenging.
Symptoms include:
- Difficulty reading small print
- Eye strain or fatigue when reading
- The need for brighter light to see clearly
Treatment Options for Presbyopia
Many people find relief with reading glasses, bifocals, or multifocal lenses. Visit your eye doctor for regular checkups to determine if you have presbyopia. They can help you explore vision correction options to suit your changing vision needs.
Cataracts
Cataracts are a condition where the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision. This is one of the most common reasons for blindness in older adults.
Symptoms include:
- Blurry or hazy vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Increased sensitivity to glare
- Colours appearing faded
Treatment Options for Cataracts
The good news is cataracts can be surgically removed, with the cloudy lens replaced by an artificial lens. This procedure is a popular option with a high success rate that can significantly improve vision often without the need for extensive recovery time.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD is a progressive disease affecting the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision. It is the leading cause of blindness in adults over 50 in North America.
There are 2 forms of AMD: dry and wet. Dry AMD, the more common type, occurs when the light-sensitive cells in the macula slowly break down, leading to gradual vision loss.
Symptoms of dry AMD include:
- Blurred or distorted central vision
- Difficulty recognizing faces
- Dark or empty areas in the centre of vision
Wet AMD, though less common, is more severe and occurs after dry AMD, when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina, leaking fluid and causing rapid vision loss.
Treatment Options for AMD
While there is no cure for AMD, early detection is crucial. Regular eye exams can detect and help monitor the condition. Some treatments may slow its progression, including medications, laser therapy, or lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to high eye pressure. It is one of the leading causes of blindness in older adults and can develop silently without noticeable symptoms in its early stages.
If symptoms are noticeable, they can include:
- Gradual loss of peripheral vision
- Tunnel vision in advanced stages
- Redness in the eye
- Severe headache or eye pain (in acute cases)
Treatment Options for Glaucoma
Regular eye exams are vital for early detection of glaucoma, especially since symptoms can begin so gradually. Treatments may include prescription eye drops, oral medications, laser treatments, or surgery to reduce intraocular pressure and prevent further damage.
How to Support Healthy Eyes as You Age
Maintaining healthy eyes involves a proactive approach, combining regular checkups and lifestyle choices. Some daily habits that can help you preserve your eye health and reduce the risk of eye disease include:
- Scheduling regular eye exams: Aim for a comprehensive eye examination at least once a year to spot potential issues early.
- Eating a balanced diet: Include foods high in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, to support eye health.
- Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain optimal eye moisture and overall health.
- Wearing UV-blocking sunglasses: Protect your eyes from harmful rays by using sunglasses that block 100% of UV radiation. This can help reduce the risk of cataracts, AMD, and photokeratitis (eye sunburn).
- Managing chronic conditions: Keep conditions like diabetes and hypertension under control to prevent complications.
- Being aware of vision changes: Pay attention to any alterations in your vision and consult an optometrist promptly.
- Maintaining good eye hygiene: This is especially important for contact lens users. Always wash your hands before handling lenses and follow your optometrist’s care instructions.
Visit Calgary Optometry Centre for Your Next Checkup
Maintaining eye health is crucial as we age, and recognizing the most common vision problems can lead to better management and treatment. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to preserving your vision and enjoying a vibrant, active life.
For more information on aging vision and eye health, book an appointment online or contact our Calgary Optometry Centre team with any questions! Your vision matters, and we’re here to help you see life clearly.
