September is Healthy Aging Month. This month is an excellent opportunity to focus on healthy practices and take charge of your eye health. With more than 40 million Americans aged 65 or older, a number expected to exceed 88 million by 2050, the importance of early detection and treatment cannot be overstated. By 2050, the number of Americans with age-related eye diseases is projected to double, and those living with low vision will triple. Being proactive about your eye health through early detection and treatment is key. With each passing year, we gain more wisdom and experience, and Healthy Aging Month is a time to celebrate this journey. We want to mark this occasion by sharing empowering information on protecting your vision and respecting the wisdom that comes with age. Here are a few common age-related eye diseases to click on to learn more about each eye condition:
Common Age-Related Eye Diseases
Age-related macular degeneration Cataract Dry eye Glaucoma Diabetic Retinopathy Most of these conditions affect people of retirement age but can also develop when you are younger. Cataracts tend to develop in middle age, particularly around the age of 40. This specific age group is at a higher risk of developing cataracts at that time. Talk to your eye doctor about any vision changes you are experiencing, and don’t forget to discuss your family’s eye health history to receive the appropriate treatment or diagnosis.
How To Maintain Good Eye Health
- Exercise
- Maintain normal blood pressure
- Kick the habit of smoking
- Eat a diet rich in green, leafy vegetables and fish
- Control diabetes (if you have it)
- Wear sunglasses and a brimmed hat any time you are outside in the bright sun
- Wear protective eyewear when working around your house or playing sports
Uncontrolled diabetes can put you at risk for several conditions, especially with diabetic retinopathy. Also, conditions like glaucoma are more common in individuals with diabetes and hypertension. It’s crucial to follow your primary doctor’s instructions to maintain good overall health for those conditions, as they can help you manage your diabetes and hypertension effectively, reducing the risk of eye conditions. Your eye doctor plays a crucial role in managing your eye health. They can detect early signs of eye diseases, provide necessary treatments, and offer advice on maintaining good eye health. So, above all, don’t skip your appointment with your eye doctor. The best way to ensure positive eye health and the best defense against eye conditions is to schedule regular eye exams with your eye doctor. Our eyes and vision change as we age, so it’s important not to delay or deny your eye health. Remember, your eye doctor is there to care for your eyes, so don’t skip your appointment. Call
TODAY to schedule your appointment with your eye doctor.
References: American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Optometric Association, and the National Eye Institute. This blog provides information and discussion about eye health and related subjects. The content provided within this blog and any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered medical advice. If the reader or any person has a medical concern, they should consult with an appropriately licensed physician.
