It’s so easy to take eye health for granted, especially for people who have always had good vision. But as seniors age, they encounter more and more obstacles to eye health. A poor diet, vices like smoking or drinking too much, and even skipping eye appointments are all factors that can do a lot of damage. When seniors have the help that they need from their families and from home care providers, they’re better able to keep a handle on the different variables that might endanger their eye health.
Go to Eye Exam Appointments
The biggest thing that any senior can do to protect their eye health is to go to their eye doctor every year at least. If they have existing eye health concerns, their eye doctor may want to see them more often than yearly. Attending these appointments is so crucial because early detection can make all the difference when it comes to dealing with eye illnesses and injuries. If seniors aren’t able to drive any longer, home care providers can take over the driving and make sure it’s easier to get to eye appointments.
Wear Sunglasses Outside
Many people don’t see the need for sunglasses, but eyes do become damaged from both UVA and UVB radiation. Sunscreen isn’t an option for eyes, but sunglasses that are designed to block the majority of both UVA and UVB radiation can work just like sunscreen does. It’s important to read the labels to determine what level of protection sunglasses offer.
Quit Smoking for Good
Every list for helping seniors be healthier probably includes some variation of “quit smoking,” but there are reasons for that. Smoking causes a great deal of damage throughout the body, not just in the lungs. Smoking can increase the risk of eye illnesses like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. For seniors that still smoke, there are programs available that can help to make quitting a lot easier.
Address Underlying Health Issues
Seniors who have existing health issues like diabetes, heart disease, or high cholesterol may not realize that their eye health is also at risk. These illnesses can put a strain on the eyes, optic nerves, and on blood vessels that keep the eyes healthy. It’s important to address underlying health issues before they cause irreparable damage to vision. Home care providers can offer a lot of help when it comes to keeping seniors healthier in general.
Limit Alcohol When Possible
Alcohol poses health risks throughout the body, of course, but it can also be damaging to eye health. Drinking too much can increase cataract risks, for example. Drinking in moderation may not be a problem, but seniors should talk to their doctors and to their eye doctors about whether alcohol creates bigger risk factors for them.
Aging adults who want to keep their vision in good condition for as long as possible tend to have better luck hitting that goal when they have support along the way. Working with home care providers is just one way that seniors can get both hands-on help and emotional support as they strive to be healthier overall.