Vision Tips for Older Adults September Is Healthy Aging Month

NEW YORK (August 28, 2024) – Maintaining our health and quality of life as we age requires us to prioritize the protection of our vision. Regular eye exams and early detection are essential for maintaining good eye health, just like many other aspects of our overall health. 

Low vision, which refers to vision loss that can’t be corrected with eyeglasses, contacts, or surgery, can impact many people as they get older and lead to difficulty performing everyday activities such as driving, reading, and other hobbies. Symptoms can include loss of central and/or peripheral vision, blurred or hazy vision, and difficulty seeing at night. 

Older adults are at increased risk for eye diseases that affect vision such as age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma. Systemic health problems such as diabetes and high blood pressure can also impact the eyes. Injuries, such as falls, and cataracts are also common causes of reduced vision in older adults. 

“Many eye diseases and conditions have no warning signs or symptoms, but they can be detected in their early stages during a comprehensive eye exam,” says Dr. Rebekah Lin, Low Vision Specialist at Lighthouse Guild. “Early detection and treatment are essential for saving sight.”

In addition to regular comprehensive eye exams, which can detect problems before noticeable vision loss occurs, lifestyle factors can play an important role in protecting vision.

Lighthouse Guild offers tips for maintaining eye health:

• Eat a balanced diet including dark, leafy greens and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids.
• Maintain a healthy weight and exercise.
• Get enough sleep to rest your eyes.
• Quit smoking.
• Keep diabetes and blood pressure under control.
• Wear sunglasses and a brimmed hat outdoors.
• Wear protective eyewear during activities such as sports, gardening and construction work, when your eyes may be vulnerable to exposure.
• Help prevent falls with slip-proof rugs and secure railings.
• Discuss your family’s eye health history with your eye care professional.

About Lighthouse Guild

Lighthouse Guild provides exceptional services that inspire people who are visually impaired to attain their goals. We provide coordinated care for eye health, vision rehabilitation and behavioral health as well as related services. Our podcast series, “On Tech & Vision with Dr. Cal Roberts,” offers information and insights about technological innovations that are tearing down barriers for people who are blind or visually impaired.

Source:                   Lighthouse Guild 

Press Contact:        Bryan Dotson, Manners Dotson Group 

917-796-8632, bdotson@mannersdotson.com

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