The aging process brings about a multitude of changes in our bodies, and our eyes are no exception. As the years go by, our vision undergoes transformations that can impact our daily lives. Understanding these changes and adopting healthy habits can significantly contribute to maintaining good eye health well into your golden years. Here we will delve into how our vision evolves with age and explore some simple strategies to keep those peepers in tip-top shape.
Understanding Age-Related Vision Changes
As we get older, there’s many changes that can happen to our eyes and vision. Some of these include:
· Presbyopia - Have you noticed yourself holding reading material at arm's length to see it more clearly? This is due to a condition called presbyopia, which is a natural part of aging. From around the age of 40, it’s common to experience difficulty focusing on close-up objects or reading fine print.
· Reduced pupil size and adaptation to light - As we age, the muscles that control the size of our pupils become less responsive. This can make it challenging to adapt to changes in lighting conditions, especially when transitioning from darkness to bright light or vice versa.
· Changes in Colour Perception – Changes in the eye's lens and the way it filters light can impact the way we perceive and distinguish colours. Colours might not appear as vibrant as they once did.
· Increased Sensitivity to Glare – Ageing eyes can become more sensitive to glare, which can be particularly problematic when driving at night or facing bright sunlight. This sensitivity is often linked to changes in the eye's lens and the amount of light it lets in.
· Risk of Age-Related Eye Diseases - As we get older, there is naturally an increased risk of developing eye conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). These conditions can lead to gradual vision loss if not detected and managed early.
How to Maintain Good Eye Health as You Age?
Fortunately, there are things that can be done to keep your eyes in the best condition possible, and most of them are simple to implement into your daily life.
Have Regular Eye Exams
Routine eye examinations are essential, even if you haven’t noticed any changes in your vision. An eye care professional can catch potential issues early on and recommend appropriate treatments or lifestyle changes. For thorough eye tests, Perth families can rely on Abernethy Owens. Book an eye exam at one of our five practices across Perth today.
Consume a Balanced Diet
A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can support eye health. Incorporate foods like leafy greens, colourful fruits, fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, and nuts – these are all great choices that are filled with nutrients that will benefit your eyes.
Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration is vital for overall health, including eye health. Drinking enough water can help prevent dry eyes, which can become more common as you age. Most of us have heard the rule that adults should drink “six to eight 8 glasses of water per day”. The truth is this is an estimate and the actual amount of water you should be drinking per day can vary quite significantly. Consult your healthcare professional for personalised advice.
Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays
When spending time outdoors, whether it’s going for a walk, gardening, or simply having a coffee in the morning sun, always wear sunglasses that provide UV protection. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can contribute to cataracts and other eye issues.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of several eye diseases, including cataracts and AMD. Quitting smoking can have a positive impact on your eye health, and your overall health and wellbeing as well.
Manage Chronic Conditions
If you suffer from conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, work closely with your doctor or healthcare specialist to manage them effectively. There are many conditions that can impact your eye health if left uncontrolled.
As we journey through life, our eyes evolve, and it's crucial to embrace these changes while proactively caring for our visual health. By staying vigilant, making healthy choices, and seeking regular professional care, you can continue to enjoy clear vision and vibrant eyes well into your later years. Your eyes are your windows to the world—let's keep them shining bright!
Looking for Experienced Optometrists? Perth’s Abernethy Owens is Your Trusted Choice
Providing highly personalised eye care services for over 90 years, we are proud to be a wholly Western Australian owned and operated business. Starting out with our Fremantle practice, we now have 4 other practices across Perth, located in Rockingham, Kardinya, Woodvale, and Floreat. Make an appointment with your local practice today and let our friendly staff take care of your eye health. Book online now or call 1800 411 744.