Eye care
Eye Care After 60
Our population is aging but we refuse to give in to old age. As
we grow older we want to take care of ourselves and minimize the
effects of aging. Good eye care is essential for the over 60s
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 like 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.
Presbyopia 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.
Importance Of Eyecare For The Over 60s
After briefly exploring the various eye conditions that people
face after they reach the age of 60 we have shown 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.