Your eyes age with the rest of your body. If you are 40 or older, you might begin experiencing changes in your vision. Seeing nearby objects or adjusting to dim environments might be more difficult. Age is also a risk factor for various sight-threatening conditions like cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration. Fortunately, there are measures you can take to keep your eyes healthy and preserve your vision.
Here are tips to protect your vision as you age.
Get Regular Eye Exams
Routine eye exams go a long way in maintaining good eye health. Your eye doctor will perform several tests to evaluate your eyes and detect potential issues. These assessments are crucial in the early detection of serious eye conditions. For instance, macular degeneration doesn’t often manifest symptoms until in its later stages.
Look Into Age-Related Vision Problems
The risk of developing cataracts, macular degeneration and glaucoma increases with age. Let your eye doctor know if you have a family history of these conditions. If you experience sudden changes in your vision, don’t wait long before seeing an eye specialist.
Eat Nourishing Meals
Your diet can affect your eye health. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients can help safeguard your eyes from diseases. Incorporate colorful fruits and vegetables into your daily meals. Lean meat, eggs and fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids are also good for your eyes.
Wear UV-Blocking Sunglasses
Wearing UV-blocking sunglasses is just as important as wearing sunscreen. They protect your eyes from the harsh sun rays that can cause cataracts.
Make Healthy Lifestyle Changes
Quitting poor habits and starting healthy ones can benefit your eyes. For example, if you stop smoking, your overall health and quality of life will improve. It may lower your risk for age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Moreover, daily exercise is also helpful for eye health as it improves blood circulation.
When it’s time for your next eye check-up, visit Spectrum Eye Care. We’re here to help you make the right choices for your vision and eye health. Call us at (704) 817-4600 or complete our online form to schedule an appointment.