The Aging Eye Journey: The Importance of Eye Health
We appreciate the importance of maintaining good eye health as we get older. Healthy Aging Month serves as a valuable reminder to raise awareness about the changes that occur as we grow older. It helps us discover practical strategies for promoting the health of our bodies, including our aging eyes. Our eyes undergo natural changes as time goes by; unfortunately, these changes typically lead to a decline in vision. It’s common for our eyesight to worsen as we age. By taking good care of our eyes and adopting good eye care habits, we can contribute to good eye health. We understand that it might be frustrating that we can’t prevent all eye problems, but there is still a lot we can do that stay as healthy as possible.
During this Healthy Aging Month, eyecarecenter in North Carolina would like to take this opportunity to discuss aging eyes so you better understand what to expect. We will also go over the steps we can take to ensure their well-being.
Age-Related Eye Issues
These are some eye conditions that come with aging:
Macular Degeneration
One of the leading causes of worsening vision as you age is age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD affects the part of the retina you need for central vision (macula). If you suffer from AMD, your vision will worsen and become blurry. You’ll mainly have issues reading and seeing items up close. We know how stressful AMD can be and want to help you avoid it at all costs. Age-related macular degeneration is a leading eye issue affecting people 50 and older.
Presbyopia
If you have trouble seeing items up close or reading, you are suffering from presbyopia. Presbyopia is debilitating if you don’t have proper glasses. Presbyopia is more common in people in their 40s or 50s. In the US, 83% to 89% of adults 45 or older suffer from presbyopia. You may be struggling with this now, and we want to do everything we can to help.
Cataracts
Cataracts are when the natural lens of your eyes becomes cloudy. Proteins in your lens break down and cause things to look blurry, hazy, or less colorful. Cataracts grow over time untreated. Unfortunately, cataracts affect 24.4 million Americans age 40 and older, so we want to do what we can to inform you about these eye issues. Surgery is the only way to get rid of cataracts. It would help if you didn’t have to deal with cataracts, so you should check your eyes regularly.
Dry Eyes
Dry eyes are a common ailment and become even more common as we age. Unfortunately, dry eyes can lead to discomfort, irritation, itching, burning, or blurry vision. You might even get watery eyes as your eyes get more irritated.
How to Keep Your Aging Eyes Healthy
What should you do for good eye health?
UV Ray Protection
We know how much you love spending time outside in the sun, but we’re here to tell you that you must be careful. Exposing your eyes to ultraviolet rays (UV rays) can do much damage. And since UV ray exposure accumulates over time, limiting direct exposure is even more critical. Your eyes are safest when wearing sunglasses that block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Wearing hats will also keep the sun out of your eyes.
Eat Healthier
Eating leafy greens, fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, and seeds is suitable for your eye health. Not only do we want you to have healthy eyes, but we want you to have a healthy body. The recommended foods contain antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. As we mentioned, eating these healthy foods is generally good for your health. Think of it as a bonus that your eyes will also be healthier.
Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking plenty of water is one of the best things you can do for your eye health. We know how crucial overall health is to you, and staying hydrated is also good for your general health. If you’re dehydrated, you might suffer from dry eyes, irritation, and even more quickly develop cornea issues. Fill up your water bottle frequently and stay hydrated to live a life with healthier eyes. They will thank you in the long run.
Get Regular Eye Exams
Regularly scheduled comprehensive eye exams are the most important thing you can do for your eye health as you age. Since your eyes worsen naturally, the best we can do is monitor them to ensure you’re getting the proper treatment. Visiting an eye doctor regularly, like the team at eyecarecenter, will help you stay ahead of any eye problems. Eye exams can help determine if you have glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and other ailments. It’s better when catching these eye diseases in their early stages.
Contact eyecarecenter in North Carolina Today
We know you’re concerned about your eye health, and we understand that you might be having eye issues now, and that’s why we’re here. By following our guidance, you’ll be well on your way to healthier aging eyes. Our team at eyecarecenter has what you need for comprehensive eye care and good eye health. No matter where you are in North Carolina, quality eye care and comprehensive eye exams are never far away!
Call or click today if you want to learn more about the goal of Healthy Aging Month. Reach out to schedule an appointment at eyecarecenter!