As we age, vision problems often occur. Regular eye exams are an essential part of a healthy routine for anyone, but especially those who are aging. There are several kinds of vision problems that you or a loved one may be experiencing.
Learning about the common warning signs of vision impairment can help to keep your eyesight longer. While some vision problems can develop quickly – such as a detached retina – others slowly deteriorate over time. The more you delay treatment, the more opportunity for permanent vision loss.
Here is the relevant information you should know.
Age-Related Vision Problems
Macular Degeneration: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the primary cause of severe vision loss in those over 50 years old. The condition typically causes blurriness and a loss of color vision. One of the main early warning signs of AMD is a dark area in the center of the field of vision.
Cataracts: 24 million adults are living with cataracts at any given time. Cataracts are characterized by blurred vision, night vision problems, and marked sensitivity to glare. Without treatment, cataracts can lead to blindness. In fact, they represent the leading cause of blindness in seniors. The presence of cataracts is generally identified by cloudy or opaque areas in the lens of the eye.
Glaucoma: This eye condition is, in reality, a group of several eye diseases that damage the optic nerve. If left untreated, glaucoma will end in total vision loss. The disease most often afflicts individuals over 40, but if diagnosed early, glaucoma can be treated. Glaucoma is identified by the loss of peripheral vision, tunnel or hazy vision and increased sensitivity to light.
Double Vision: There is no defining cause for double vision, but it is often a red flag for something much more serious. While double vision and ghost images are most often connected to vision problems, they can also indicate that a stroke is occurring. If experiencing double vision, get to a hospital as soon as possible.
Blepharitis and Dry Eye Syndrome: Blepharitis is an infection or inflammation of the eyelid. This condition is more of a nuisance than a serious disease. Itchy, irritated eyelids and scaly eyelashes are the primary symptoms. Blepharitis is not contagious but can transition into dry eye syndrome. Senior citizens are especially vulnerable to dry eye syndrome.
Effects Beyond Eyesight
Seniors can feel alone and isolated when they begin to lose their eyesight. For individuals with balance or mobility issues, visions problems can be especially troubling. Vision issues are also challenging when the surrounding environment is unfamiliar, such as when they move from their family home into an assisted living facility.
Being proactive about eye health is the most effective way to protect our vision as we grow older. If your loved one resides in an assisted living facility or memory care center, a family member can consult with the administration to develop a plan for attending eye appointments. Most adult living residences will offer transportation to medical appointments if there is no family to transport the resident.
The team at A Banyan Residence is dedicated to the total health, safety and well-being of our residents. If you are looking for an assisted living facility in The Villages, give us a call today.
