Like any other part of your body, your eyes age as you get older. In honor of Healthy Aging Month, here are a few tips to help keep your eyes healthy as you age.
Aging is a process that brings many changes. Vision loss and blindness, however, do not have to be one of them. There are several simple steps you can take to keep your eyes healthy for the rest of your life.
One in six Americans age 65 and older have a vision impairment that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses. The risk of eye disease increases with age, yet many older adults neglect to see an optometrist for care. We want to bring attention to taking care of our eyes as we age, by recognizing Healthy Aging Month, and to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of vision loss - and steps to help seniors take care of their sight.
- Get regular eye exams Comprehensive eye exams are recommended on a regular basis for adults and those who frequently use computers. *For those 65 and older, as well as those with family history of eye disease, it is advised that you visit your eye doctor more frequently. We have two convenient locations and hours to see you.
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Loading up on fruits and vegetables can help keep your eyes healthy and disease free. Dark, leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and collard greens, which are good for your overall health and well-being, are especially good for eye health. Eye health benefits also come from eating fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, tuna, and halibut.
- Know your risk factors
As you age, you are at higher risk of forming age-related eye diseases and ailments such as AMD, cataract, diabetic eye disease, dry eye, and glaucoma. Having a family history of eye disease also puts you at higher risk. And being heavy or obese increases your risk of forming diabetes and other systemic conditions that can lead to vision loss. If you are having trouble maintaining a healthy weight, talk to your doctor. - Use protective eyewear Put on protective eyewear like goggles, safety glasses, face shields, and eye guards when playing sports or doing activities around the home and encourage your family and close friends to do the very same. Most protective eyewear lenses are made of polycarbonate, which is 10 times sturdier than other plastics. Our office sells protective eyewear.
- Did you know that you should have a baseline comprehensive eye exam at least by age 40?
While vision loss and blindness are not a normal part of aging, some vision changes such as losing focus, having trouble distinguishing between colors such as blue and black, and needing more light to see well are common. These changes can often be corrected with contact lenses or glasses and improved lighting.
Visit our offices today and get a comprehensive eye exam
(909) 596-6756 2443 Foothill LaVerne CA 91750
(909) 982-0100 1637 Mountain Ave Upland CA 91784 #drkennethboyerOD #drbrianboyerOD
