For a lot of seniors, a stronger glasses prescription is just a part of life. But you don’t have to resign yourself to deteriorating eye health as you enter your golden years. These eye health tips for seniors will help you keep your vision sharp so you can keep on enjoying life.
Eye Health Tips for Seniors
Schedule Regular Checkups
Regular appointments with your eye doctor are the best way to safeguard your vision and detect any issues before they get serious. Working with a general physician can also help you identify chronic health problems like high blood pressure and diabetes, both of which can affect eye health. Make sure to schedule annual checkups with your eye doctor, and keep all of your doctors informed about any medications and changes to your overall health.
Understand the Risks of Low Vision
As we get older, it is completely normal for our vision to deteriorate slightly. But while you might have a harder time reading far-away billboards, it’s important to keep an eye out for symptoms of low vision. Low vision is more severe than standard vision loss, as it makes daily tasks difficult and often points to eye disease. Symptoms include reduced central or peripheral vision, blurred or hazy vision, and night blindness. If you have trouble recognizing faces or reading labels at the grocery store, talk to your doctor about low vision resources.
Eat More Nutrient-Rich Foods
It might come as a surprise, but your diet is a major factor in your ongoing eye health. Foods like citrus fruits, nuts, and vegetables all offer valuable nutrients that help maintain eye health. Opt for a handful of nuts or seeds for a snack, eat a few more salads, and get creative by cooking with new fruits and veggies. Picky eaters can also talk to their doctors about vitamins and nutritional supplements for healthier eyes.
Get Moving
“Diet and exercise” is a common prescription for a host of health issues, and eye health is no exception. Your eyes need positive blood circulation and oxygen intake to function at their full capacity, and exercise stimulates both of these things. Not sure where to begin? If you don’t already have a fitness routine, try incorporating gentle exercise like yoga, walking, or stretching to get your body moving.
Protect Your Eyes
We tend to think of eye protection as something reserved for high-intensity sports or solar eclipses. In reality, the world is full of eye hazards – everything from splinters during home improvement projects to collateral damage during a fall. Make sure to use protective eyewear when completing any home improvement projects. You should also work to reduce the risk of falls in your home by following these tips:
- Purchase slip-proof rugs and tub mats for the bathroom.
- Work with a professional to ensure that your stairs and railings are sturdy and up to code.
- Consider adding cushions to sharp furniture corners.
- If you have limited mobility, consider working with a professional to keep your space clean and tidy. This will significantly reduce your risk of slipping and falling.
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These eye health tips for seniors are a great first step to prioritize eye health throughout your golden years. Keep your eyes on the prize by working with an eye doctor, keeping close watch over your symptoms, and reducing your fall risk.
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