Eye Care Tips for the Elderly: Maintain Clear Vision Even After 60

Vision loss is one of the most discussed health complications that older people experience. It might be part and parcel of the natural ageing process, but it’s worrying, nonetheless. Growing age also welcomes health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure and poor heart health. All these altogether influence eyesight. 

It is best to be transparent during a visit to eye opticians. Do not hide information related to supplements, medication and food habits. Your lifestyle choices, such as exercise routine, sleeping and eating schedules, everything influences vision. 

People over 60 often complain of their limited vision. As we grow older, reading becomes a struggle. It is known as Presbyopia. Holding things further away or using glasses that support both myopia and presbyopia can solve the issue.

We all are familiar with how smoking or drinking impacts our eyes. However, you might not be aware that cutting out unhealthy (processed or frozen) fried and sweetened dishes can improve your eye health. Let us explore the tips to maintain good eyesight:

Routine Eye Tests

Regular eye tests can prevent poor eye health to a great extent. It not only determines whether the glass number is correct or not but also detects signs of cataracts and glaucoma. Adults over 60 can benefit from free eye checkups in the UK. But, many still skip the tests and silently suffer.

Our eyes change shape and size with age, making it harder to see clearly. A comprehensive eye examination at least once a year is a requisite for the elderly. 

Wear The Correct Lenses

In addition to eating a healthy diet, maintaining healthy vision requires regular eye care. Poor eyesight can lead to a number of problems, which may require professional eye care advice. 

A yearly eye test can determine whether the prescription you need for contact lenses and glasses is the same or not. The right lenses improve the quality of life and reduce accidental falls or bumping into objects.

If your prescription is changing, make sure you get new glasses. They must be of the right shape, otherwise, they might not sit comfortably on your face.

Don't squint your eyes while looking away.

Put on the glasses during driving or other activities that require good eye-hand coordination.

Avoid computer games, TV, reading, and other activities when your eyes are tired or sore.

Do not play with your glasses. Keep them on your face and treat them with care.

Protect your eyes from the sun

Wear sunglasses that block UV rays and protect your eyes from the sun. It will help prevent cataracts and macular degeneration, which can cause blurry vision and blindness. If you are a lens user, there are contact lenses available with a built-in UV filter. Choose lenses (among glasses, contact lenses, and sunglasses) that suit your lifestyle.

Don't smoke

You may think that your eyes are getting older, but there are ways to support your vision. While you may have noticed your blurry vision, there are many steps available to maintain healthy vision.

Smoking has a direct impact on the health of your eyes. It's not only the nicotine that is damaging but the smoke itself. Your eyes are particularly sensitive to damage from smoke.  Even just a few days of smoking can severely affect your vision. 

Smoking has always been associated with a number of eye conditions, including macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetes. It not only influences the structure and function of your eyes but also changes the way you see. 

Protective Eyewear

No, we are not talking about reading glasses. It is a special kind of glass that people working outdoors wear - safety goggles. These protect your eyes from dust, small rocks, and other debris.

Eat well

A balanced diet can safeguard you from several health complications. Include colourful vegetables and fruits in your everyday diet. Protein is also beneficial for overall health.  

Use Good Lighting

Let the light shower in your house. Keep doors and windows wide open in the morning. Installing several light fixtures throughout the house keeps the entire property well-lit after sunset. Adjust the brightness to suit your preferences.

Extra Tips:

Keep your computer, phone, and tablet screens at a comfortable viewing distance.

Avoid using coloured lenses.

Keep reading materials and books at eye level. You can see them clearly.

Wear protective eyewear whenever there are potentially hazardous activities such as driving, operating machinery, and working with hazardous materials.

Wash your hands with soap and water before touching your eyes with bare hands.

End Notes

Check your vision regularly. Get your eyes checked every six months if you are over 40. Consult a certified optometrist to understand what is going on with your eyes. People suffering from diabetes, hypertension, or high cholesterol should be more aware of eye care tips.

Visiting a doctor is the only practical solution when something seems off with your eyes. Vigilance is key when it comes to your eyesight. Arrange an appointment with your local Northampton-based eye opticians for treatments.