As we get older, it becomes increasingly important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of age-related vision loss. While most people will need glasses to read by the time they reach 40, there are more serious eye conditions that can affect us as we age, such as glaucoma, retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration and cataracts. Early detection is key in preserving healthy vision. In this article, we will discuss how to stay ahead of age-related vision loss and what you can do in your everyday life to keep your eyesight healthy.
Regular Eye Exams
Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining good vision. During an exam, the doctor will check for any abnormalities or changes in the eyes that could indicate a problem. They may also measure your visual acuity to determine if you need glasses or contacts. If any problems are found during an exam, it’s important to follow up with the doctor for further tests and treatment options.
Healthy Habits
In addition to regular eye exams, there are some easy things you can do in your everyday life that can help keep your eyes healthy. Eating a balanced diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables is important for overall health but especially for eye health since these foods contain antioxidants which help protect against damage from free radicals. Getting enough sleep each night also helps keep our eyes healthy since fatigue can cause dryness and irritation. Finally, limiting screen time (TV/computer/phone) to no more than two hours per day has been shown to reduce eyestrain caused by spending too much time looking at digital screens.
Protection From The Sun
Ultraviolet radiation from sunlight has been linked with several types of age-related vision loss including cataracts and macular degeneration. Wearing sunglasses when outdoors will help protect your eyes from harmful UV rays which can cause damage over time if not protected properly. Additionally, wearing a hat with a brim will also provide additional protection for your face and eyes from the sun’s rays.
Taking steps now to preserve good vision throughout life is essential for keeping our eyes healthy as we age. Regular eye exams should be part of everyone’s routine healthcare plan after reaching 18 years old (or sooner depending on risk factors). Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables; getting enough sleep; limiting screen time; wearing sunglasses when outdoors; and wearing a hat with a brim are all simple habits that can go a long way towards protecting our eyesight over time. Implementing these practices today will ensure better sight tomorrow!