As we age, our bodies undergo various changes, and our eyes are no exception. According to the National Eye Institute, with the aging population, vision loss from eye disease is becoming a major public health concern. More than 40 million people are age 65 or older, and that number is expected to grow to more than 88 million by 2050. Maintaining good eye health is the key to maintaining our quality of life and independence. Understanding common eye diseases that affect older adults and taking proactive steps to care for your eyes today can lead to a brighter, clearer future.

Common Eye Diseases in Older Adults

Aging increases the risk of several eye conditions. Awareness of these diseases and scheduling comprehensive eye exams with the doctors at Bissell Eye Care can help in early detection and management.

• Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision, glare, and difficulty seeing at night. This condition is extremely common in older adults and can significantly impair daily activities. Fortunately, cataract surgery is a safe and effective treatment that can restore vision.
• Glaucoma – Known as the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to high eye pressure. It develops gradually and can lead to irreversible vision loss if not detected early. Regular comprehensive eye exams are essential for monitoring eye pressure and catching glaucoma in its early stages.
• Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) AMD affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision. This condition can cause blurred or distorted vision and is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. While there is no cure, treatments such as lifestyle changes, nutritional supplements, and medical interventions can slow its progression.
• Diabetic Retinopathy Diabetes can lead to diabetic retinopathy, a condition where high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina. This can result in vision loss if left untreated. Managing blood sugar levels and regular eye check-ups are key to preventing or managing this condition.
• Dry Eye Syndrome As we age, our eyes produce fewer tears, leading to dry eye syndrome. This condition can cause discomfort, redness, and blurred vision. Over-the-counter eye drops, prescription medications, and lifestyle adjustments can help alleviate symptoms.

Ways to Prevent Vision Loss

Healthy aging starts with the choices you make today. Here are some steps you can take to protect your eyes and maintain good vision as you age:

• Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams which vital for detecting eye diseases in their early stages when they are most treatable. Even if you don’t have vision problems, seeing an optometrist annually can help catch potential issues before they become serious.
• A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can support eye health. Foods like leafy greens, carrots, fish, and nuts provide essential nutrients such as vitamins C and E, zinc, and lutein, which are important for eye health.
• Managing chronic health conditions like diabetes and hypertension can have a significant impact on your eyesight. These conditions which are managed through medication, diet, and regular check-ups can reduce the risk of eye-related complications.
• Quit smoking as it is a major risk factor for your overall health as well as several eye diseases, including cataracts and AMD.
• Protect Your Eyes from UV radiation from the sun which can damage your eyes over time. Wearing sunglasses with UV protection and a wide-brimmed hat can shield your eyes from harmful rays.
• Stay physically active by participating in regular exercise that improves circulation, which is beneficial for your eyes and helps lower the risk of conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Quality sleep is essential for overall health, including your eyes. Resting your eyes during sleep allows them to recover and stay healthy.

Your eyes are your windows to the world and the pathway to maintaining your independence. By understanding common eye diseases and adopting healthy habits today, you can preserve your vision and enjoy a high quality of life well into your later years. Regular comprehensive eye exams, a healthy diet, and a proactive approach to managing your health are key to keeping your eyes sharp and your outlook bright. Don’t delay call our office at 724-443-6767 or 724-226-0444 to schedule your appointment today!

About Bissell Eye Care: John D. Bissell, OD owns and operates Bissell Eye Care servicing Northern Pittsburgh and Alle-Kiski Valley regions. With two locations to treat patients, we offer evening appointments. Bissell Eye Care provides comprehensive eye examinations for the entire family beginning as early as 6 months, ocular disease detection and treatment, eyeglasses, sunglasses, activewear, contact lenses, and low vision examinations for those with significant vision loss. We accept most types of vision and health insurance plans. For more information, visit bisselleyecare.com or call our Bakerstown Office at 724-443-6767 or Natrona Heights office at 724-226-0444.