Eye Health in your 50s, 60, & Senior Years
One great issue plaguing Australian seniors is eyesight. Like all the rest of our bodies, our eyes can need some maintenance as we get older. In addition to regular eye checks and UV protection, there are a few things you can do to ensure you have healthy and happy eyes.
Cataracts
Often a hereditary condition, cataracts are easily detected with an eye test. Functioning like a camera lens, a cataract is a gradual clouding that makes it very difficult for your eye to focus. The great news is that cataract removal and lens replacement surgery is a simple procedure that usually doesn’t require a hospital stay.
Floaters
One of the lesser-known eye conditions is ‘floaters’. These are tiny spots or specks that drift across your line of sight. While persistent or worsening floaters can be a sign of an underlying health condition, the great news is that often, they are harmless.
Glaucoma
As you age, there is an increased likelihood of developing an eye condition known as glaucoma. It can affect one or both eyes, with increased eye pressure damaging the optic nerve. If left untreated, glaucoma can gradually cause severe vision loss. So what’s the great news? Glaucoma often is treatable with eye drops, or laser treatment for more advanced – and rare cases.
Macular Degeneration
One of the most serious eye conditions plaguing Australians is macular degeneration. It is a degenerative disease of the retina, gradually or quickly claiming fine detail to major vision loss. While there is no known cure for macular degeneration, the great news is that there are treatments to slow its progression. The earlier the disease is caught, the better your chances, so book an eye test today.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Individuals diagnosed with diabetes are susceptible to an eye condition called diabetic retinopathy. This can lead to a major loss of vision, severely impacting spacial awareness, general health, and quality of life. The great news is that there are multiple treatments available, ranging from eye drops to laser surgery.
Farsightedness
If you can only see things clearly when they are held away from your face, you might have farsightedness. Medically called presbyopia, it can be made worse by extended reading or computer time. The great news is that corrective lenses can counteract this condition, and can easily be increased should the need arise.
Fighting Vision Loss
There are so many wonderful things to see in this world, that any level of vision loss can create much unhappiness. Though it is more common as we age, in many cases there are ways to both prevent and treat it. Regular check-ups allow your optometrist to monitor your vision, and treat it with glasses, medication, or to refer you for other treatments. Make sure you book and schedule your eye checks regularly.
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