Changes in the eyes are a natural, but unwelcome, sign of aging. There are many ways your vision changes as you age, and it is important to be aware of these changes so that you can take steps to protect your vision. Below, the experienced eye care team at Cavanaugh Eye Center has explained some of the most common ways your vision changes as you age and the conditions that can develop.
Changes In the Eye’s Lens and Tear Production
Over time, your eyesight naturally begins to deteriorate. This can happen for a number of reasons, including changes in the eye’s lens and decreased production of tears. As our bodies continue to age, the eye’s lens becomes hazy and less able to focus on objects up close. Continual exposure to sunlight can also damage the lens over time, causing a condition known as presbyopia. Decreased production of tear films also occurs with age and can lead to dry eyes, blurred vision, or headaches.
In order to counteract these effects, it is essential for aging people to have regular checkups with their eye doctor regardless of whether any symptoms present themselves or not. Preventative care can help many signs of aging eyes from progressing into more serious conditions down the line.
Common Vision Problems Due To Aging
Conditions such as presbyopia, cataracts, and macular degeneration can all contribute to blurred vision, difficulty focusing on near objects, difficulty with glare and color vision, and gradually diminishing sight. Signs of these ailments may appear slowly over time and can oftentimes be managed with the right diagnosis and treatment though it is important to consult with a certified eye doctor should you experience any changes in your vision.
How To Offset Vision Changes as You Age
Aging eyes can manifest in different ways, making details seem less clear and impairing our ability to adjust to bright lights and focus on objects. Fortunately, small lifestyle changes can help offset some of these changes. Eating a healthy diet rich in nutrients, exercising regularly, and getting routine eye exams can help maintain your vision over time. Making small incremental changes now could make a significant difference down the road for your full-functioning vision as you age.
Treatments for Aging Eyes
Age-related eye problems require specialized care and attention – but there are treatments available so that we can still enjoy our vision for as long as possible. Eye problems can present a variety of complications in our everyday lives. For those near-sighted or far-sighted, for example, lens implants that are tailored to fit your respective needs and lifestyle can be recommended.
Those who have difficulty focusing their vision may benefit from lenses that constantly adjust and correct both far away and near objects. Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) has become increasingly common among the elderly; if left untreated it can lead to significant impairment. You may need to take supplement medications daily to help slow AMD-related degradation to your eyesight.
As you age, it’s natural for your eyesight to begin deteriorating. You can help offset some of these changes by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting regular eye exams. If you do experience vision changes as you age, there are treatments available that can help improve your sight. Contact Cavanaugh Eye Center today to learn more about how we can help you treat vision problems.
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