Wednesday, March 30, 2016
Clear Vision, Living Independently Top
Priorities for Older Americans
Seventy-five
percent of aging Americans affected by vision problems; Dr. Tyler Mautino offers
tips to protect eyesight throughout life
Fluctuations
in vision are often one of the first health changes adults notice as they get
older. Although these changes can be bothersome, even more troubling problems
could be lurking beneath the surface and cause vision loss. According to the
American Optometric Association’s (AOA) 2015 American Eye-Q® survey,
the inability to live independently would concern older consumers the most if
they developed serious vision problems.
Dr. Mautino offers several tips to help older adults safeguard their
vision.
Schedule a yearly
eye exam
Comprehensive eye exams by a doctor of
optometry are one of the most important, preventive ways to preserve vision,
and the only way to accurately assess eye health, diagnose an eye disorder or
disease, and determine the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Common eye conditions in older adults
that can be detected through a comprehensive eye examination include age-related macular degeneration, cataracts,
diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and dry eye. The number of adults with these eye
conditions will increase as the population of older adults grows—according to
the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2012 estimates, 72 million Americans are
expected to be over the age of 65 by 2030 (compared with 46.2 million Americans in 2014).
“Many
eye conditions develop without any warning signs or symptoms, so it’s important
to visit a doctor of optometry every year to ensure your eyes are healthy,”
said Dr. Mautino. “Early diagnosis and treatment of serious eye diseases and
disorders is critical and can often prevent loss of vision.”
Focus on healthy
lifestyle choices
Following
basic healthy habits can help ward off eye diseases and maintain existing
eyesight. One of the essential building blocks of a person’s overall health is
diet. Enjoying a diet rich in the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin can
improve eye health—these can be found in spinach and other green, leafy
vegetables, as well as eggs. Other “power foods” for the eyes include fruits
and vegetables high in Vitamin C and fish containing Omega 3 essential fatty
acids, such as salmon. Also, an optometrist can discuss vitamin therapy options
for patients experiencing vision problems and for preventive treatment.
Adapt to your
surroundings and seek help from a doctor of optometry
According
to the 2015 American Eye-Q® survey, 75 percent of Americans age 55
and older have experienced vision problems. It’s especially important for older
adults to visit their doctor of optometry to ensure their vision is good to
prevent falls and driving accidents.
Older
adults can ease the stress on their eyes by making some simple changes:
●
Stay
safe while driving: Wear quality sunglasses for daytime driving and use
anti-reflective lenses to reduce headlight glare. Limit driving at dusk, dawn
or at night if seeing under low light is difficult. Use extra caution at
intersections and reduce speed.
●
Use
contrasting colors: Define essential objects in your home, such as light
switches and telephones, with different colors so they can be spotted quickly
and easily.
● Give the eyes a boost:
Install clocks, thermometers and timers with large block letters. Magnifying
glasses can also be used for reading when larger print is not available. Text
size on the screen of smartphones and tablets can also be increased.
People
dealing with eye disease and vision loss can also seek rehabilitative services
from a doctor of optometry. These services can teach patients a variety of
techniques to allow them to perform daily activities with their remaining
vision and help them regain their independence.
Maintaining
yearly eye exams, or more frequently if recommended by an eye doctor, provides
the best protection for preventing the onset of eye diseases and allows adults
to continue leading active and productive lifestyles as they age. To make an
appointment with Dr. Mautino for a comprehensive eye exam or for additional
information on age-related eye conditions, visit www.eyecarewarren.com or call the office at 814 726 1104.
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