As we age, our eyes experience some changes that can affect vision and increase the risk of age-related eye diseases. There are many conditions like these. Some of these include cataracts, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy.
These conditions become more common with advancing age, leading to vision loss and impairment. However, there are some steps you can take to preserve eye health and reduce the risk of developing these conditions.
We are going to tell you about that. In this blog, we’ll outline some ways to prevent age-related eye diseases and maintain clear vision as we grow older.
Prioritize Regular Eye Exams
Regular eye exams are important for monitoring eye health and detecting age-related eye diseases early when they are most treatable. Schedule comprehensive eye exams with an optometrist or ophthalmologist at least once a year, even if you don’t currently have any vision problems.
During the exam, your eye care provider will evaluate your vision, check for signs of eye diseases such as cataracts, AMD, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy, and assess the overall health of your eyes. Early detection and treatment of age-related eye diseases can help preserve vision and prevent further progression, so don’t skip your annual eye exam.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle plays a crucial role in promoting good eye health and reducing the risk of age-related eye diseases. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids, which provide essential nutrients that support eye health, such as vitamins A, C, and E, zinc, and lutein.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day to maintain moisture levels in your eyes and prevent dryness. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption, as smoking and excessive alcohol intake can increase the risk of eye diseases such as cataracts and AMD.
Practice Good Digital Eye Hygiene
Many of us spend hours each day staring at screens, whether it’s on computers, smartphones, or other electronic devices. Prolonged screen time can cause digital eye strain, which may contribute to symptoms such as eye fatigue, dryness, headaches, and blurred vision.
To reduce the risk of digital eye strain, practice good digital eye hygiene by taking regular breaks from screens. Also, make sure to adjust your screen settings for optimal viewing comfort. Consider using blue light filtering glasses or screen filters to reduce exposure to harmful blue light emitted by electronic devices. In case you experience an eye injury, make sure to get Non-Healing Wound Care right away.
Manage Chronic Health Conditions
Certain chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol, can increase the risk of age-related eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and AMD. Manage chronic health conditions effectively by following your healthcare provider’s recommendations for medications and regular check-ups.
Keep your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels within target ranges to reduce the risk of complications that can affect your eyes and overall health. Communicate openly with your healthcare team about any concerns or changes in your health, and work together to develop a comprehensive plan for managing chronic conditions.
