Senior citizens are at the most risk for developing eye related problems, and even those who have good vision and eye health may begin to notice changes in their vision. It is very important to monitor optical health and eye sight during this phase of life. Regular annual visits to an ophthalmologist or optometrist are highly recommended.
It is estimated that one in three Americans will have a vision-impairing eye disease by the age of sixty-five. During eye examinations an ophthalmologist or optometrist can screen for eye diseases that become more common with age, such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, and cataracts. The best prognosis for any eye disease is early detection and prompt treatment, which is why regular care by an ophthalmologist or optometrist is so important. To read more about these common eye problems click here.
Remember that some amount of change in visual acuity is normal. It is the result of physical changes that take place naturally as the eye (and the rest of the body) ages. Some examples of these changes in eye sight include, difficulty focusing, extended time needed for eyes to adjust to changes in light, and trouble differentiating an object from the background. Although these changes do not necessarily indicate the development of an eye disease, it is important to discuss changes in eye sight with your primary care provider, as well as a qualified eye care professional, such as an ophthalmologist or optometrist. In many cases, small changes in lifestyle habits may become necessary to ensure whole-body health. For example, if focusing and seeing objects in dim light is becoming increasingly difficult, it may be wise to have a vision exam and make an informed decision on safe nighttime driving ability.
At all ages, eating well, exercising and getting the proper amount of sleep can help ensure the healthy functioning of the eye. Quitting smoking, or deciding never to begin smoking, is also an important lifestyle choice that can affect the health of the eye. Your primary care doctor, ophthalmologist, optometrist or optician can provide you with specific suggestions on how to maximize your eye health on a daily basis.