As you get older, it is natural to expect that your health and fitness will not stay the same forever. Aging goes hand in hand with a heightened risk of a wide range of health problems, and nobody is immune from this universal truth.
Your eyesight is one aspect of your health that will likely be negatively affected as you age. In fact, approximately one in three Americans will have an issue with their eyesight by the time they reach 65 years old.
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Common Age-Related Eye Issues
There are four main eye issues that are commonly experienced by those in their senior years.
These issues are:
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Macular Degeneration
- Diabetic Retinopathy
It can be very helpful to learn more about these common health conditions so you can identify any symptoms. This is not only a good idea for your own health but also for the eye health of your loved ones of the same age.
How to Maintain Your Eye Health
Going for regular eye exams is one of the best ways to keep on top of the health of your eyes. As you get older, these tests should become more comprehensive.
To ensure you receive a comprehensive eye test, you should request the following three procedures:
- Visual acuity test
- Tonometry test
- Pupil dilation test
It is fortunately the case that common age-related eye conditions can be detected early when you undergo frequent eye exams. Including all three of these tests each time you go for a check will enhance your chances of catching a problem early on. Early diagnosis can then lead to a more effective treatment plan.
Corrective Surgery for Eye Problems
It may be the case that your problem progresses quite quickly and that you have to explore surgical options.
If you are having surgery to tackle glaucoma, then you will generally be able to reclaim a good amount of your vision. This is also true of cataract surgery, although your vision may continue to be impaired for a few days after cataract surgery. When it comes to surgery for macular degeneration, there are a selection of different procedures that can be of assistance. The treatment options for diabetic retinopathy do not often include surgical routes, but non-surgical treatment can provide some relief.
Do Not Neglect Your Diet
You might be surprised to learn that you can enhance your eye health by paying close attention to your diet.
Studies have found that there is a link between certain nutrients and eye health. This means that by regularly consuming an adequate amount of these nutrients, you can help to protect your vision as you get older.
These nutrients include:
- Zinc
- Copper
- Beta carotene
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Omega fatty acids
The most exciting news of all is that it is not hard to consume beneficial amounts of these nutrients. Aim to eat a diet that is rich in nuts, seeds, legumes, leafy green vegetables, carrots, sweet potatoes and citrus fruits. Not only will a diet that includes these foods be good for your eyes, but it will also be great for your physical health in general.
