Eye care After 60
Our aging population refuses to give in to old age. Seniors want to take care of themselves and minimize the effects of aging.
Good eye care is essential for those of us over the age of 60 who want to age healthfully and gracefully.
Eye Exams
First and foremost, you need to have at least one eye exam per year. The eye doctor, or ophthalmologist, will check your vision to see if you need glasses. The ophthalmologist will also check for other diseases that manifest themselves by changes in the eyes.
Your eyes are not only the window to your soul; they are the window to your health.
Changes In The Older Eye
Just as your skin, your hair, and your joints change with age, your eyes also change as you get older. Some of the eye problems that come on with aging are presbyopia, cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.
Some of these conditions can be treated and some cannot. Good eye care can minimize the effects of some conditions.
Presbyopia
Presbyopia is commonly called far-sightedness. If you're 60, you've probably had presbyopia for 15 to 20 years already. The condition is a normal effect of aging, and it is easily managed by making changes to your eyeglass or contact lens prescription.
If you already wear eyeglasses for near-sightedness, you may need to wear bifocals or to get a second pair of glasses for close work.
Cataracts
It's been reported that about half of all 65-year-old Americans have some stage of cataracts formed in their eyes. The formation of cataracts is now considered a normal consequence of aging. Commonly performed cataract surgery is the accepted treatment for cataract formation.
Cataracts are best dealt with before they advance too far, so talk to your ophthalmologist as soon as you notice changes in your vision. Don't ignore you eye care.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Experts have estimated that 40% of diabetics over age 40 have some degree of diabetic retinopathy. The disease causes new blood vessels to grow over the retina, and form scar tissue, pulling the retina away from the back of the eye.
Untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to blindness.
The Importance Of Eye care Over 60
Looking at the various eye conditions that people face after they reach the age of 60 illustrates how important eye care is, and how a vital part of good eye care is seeing your ophthalmologist regularly.
If it's been more than one year since you had an eye examination, contact your eye care professional today.
