As you age, it’s normal to notice changes in your vision. You might find it harder to see objects up close or struggle to distinguish colors as clearly as you once did. Along with these changes, the likelihood of developing eye diseases increases. Conditions like macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy (if you have diabetes) become more common.
What can you do to protect your vision?
The best way to protect your eyes as you age is to schedule regular eye exams. Regular eye exams allow our West Point eye doctors to monitor any changes, adjust treatment plans as needed, and provide you with quality care that fits your specific needs. Many people don’t notice any symptoms in the early stages of eye diseases, making it easy for problems to go unnoticed until they become more serious. A comprehensive eye exam performed by an eye care professional is the only way to find some common eye diseases when they’re easier to treat and before they cause permanent damage.
The importance of eye exams for seniors
During your eye exam in West Point, our optometrist will look for signs of damage that might not be immediately apparent to you. By examining your eyes, we can detect subtle changes and early signs of conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. We will assess the health of your eyes and check for abnormalities in the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels, which may indicate broader health issues.
Early detection is crucial because it often means that treatment options are more effective. When we find eye conditions in their early stages, there are usually more options for treatment, leading to better outcomes. For example, if we catch glaucoma early, we can manage eye pressure and protect the optic nerve, preserving your vision. Similarly, treating macular degeneration early can slow its progression and ease symptoms.
Tips for keeping your eyes healthy as you age
While regular eye exams are crucial, there are other things you can do to maintain good eye health:
- Eat well: Fill your plate with foods rich in antioxidants, like leafy greens and fish high in omega-3s.
- Stay active: Regular exercise helps manage your blood pressure and cholesterol, which can lower your risk of developing eye diseases.
- Protect your eyes: Wear sunglasses to protect against UV rays and safety goggles when needed.
- Manage chronic conditions: Keep conditions like diabetes and hypertension under control to prevent related eye issues.
Conclusion
Taking care of your vision is an important part of enjoying life as you get older. At Northeast Eye Care, we work with patients of all ages, combining years of experience with the latest technology to deliver the highest quality care. If you’re noticing changes in your vision or are overdue for an eye exam, we’re ready to support you in maintaining healthy eyes. Reach out to us to book an exam or request your appointment online!