Good Eye Care Is Important for Seniors
Many senior citizens experience different eye problems as they age, making it important to maintain their eye care. Many general issues are the result of age, while other problems can lead to a permanent loss of vision. Eye floaters, changes in distance vision, and increased dry eyes are annoying problems that are often easy to solve. Further, there are other more serious diseases that can lead to blindness.
These include:
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Diabetic Retinopathy
- Detached Retina
- Lastly, blepharitis
Many of the problems facing aging eyes are preventable and treatable. The first step in the prevention of eye problems is a regular check-up with an optometrist and/or an ophthalmologist. Good glasses for reading, driving, and other activities are essential
Seniors who do not drive may need assistance with these appointments. The patient's pupils dilate, causing difficulty in driving after the routine visit. Elite Home Health Care can assist people who need special transportation to eye care doctors along with other medical appointments.
Cataract Surgery for Eye Care
This type of surgery to remove cloudy cataracts and replace them with new, clear lenses is now very safe and quite common. The patient remains awake during the procedure, but another person must provide transportation home. Patients who have had this surgery are instructed to use eye drops for several weeks, and they must have follow-up appointments with the eye doctor. They may need temporary assistance from a home healthcare professional.
A number of issues cause cataracts. Sun, medications, diseases such as diabetes can lead to the breakdown of protein in the lenses of the eyes. This problem can affect people as young as 50 although is more common in adults 60 and older.
Glaucoma
This was a leading cause of blindness in people over 60 in the past as the result of eye fluid not draining properly. The build-up of fluid causes pressure on the optic nerve, and it can lead to blindness. Further, this problem becomes treatable if it caught early. Routine eye exams include a test for glaucoma. People with this disease take special eye drops to improve drainage to maintain their eye care.
Macular Degeneration
This disease damages the macula, the center of the retina. Straight ahead vision becomes wavy and blurred. People with advanced macular degeneration often need assistance with daily living activities.
There is no immediate cure for this disease that affects more than 10 million adults, according to AARP. Indeed, a healthy lifestyle, taking precautions in sunlight, maintaining a healthy weight and not smoking help to lower the risk for this disease.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Seniors with type 1 and type 2 diabetes must be careful to keep glucose levels under control. This disease is the result of excess glucose damage to the retina. A damaged blood vessel can leak blood into the retina. Avoid this serious problem with blood sugar control.
Detached Retina for Eye Care
This condition can result from head and eye injuries. It can also be the result of the aging retina tearing away from the eye surface. Lastly, it can also happen in people who have had cataract surgery.
The retina can be reattached if the condition is found early. Contact an ophthalmologist immediately if you experience diminished vision and the feeling of a gray curtain over your eyes.
Blepharitis
This is a common condition where the rims of the eyelids become inflamed. This can be caused by allergies and skin conditions. Additionally, this problem can be kept under control with medications and daily eyewash.
Learn More About Eye Care for Seniors
Elite Home Care has special caregivers trained to work with people whose vision is limited. We can create a special program for people who need occasional care for eye-related medical procedures or continuous care due to vision problems including macular degeneration. Contact us for further information.