Your eyesight is precious. As you get older, changes in your vision can impact your independence and quality of life. Age-related eye diseases like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration are common. Fortunately, you can take proactive steps to maintain eye health as you age.

Get Comprehensive Eye Exams

Regular eye exams allow early detection and treatment of vision problems. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends eye exams every one to two years for people ages 40-54 and annual exams for those 55 and older.

More frequent exams may be necessary if you have diabetes, glaucoma risk, or other eye diseases. Comprehensive exams check for cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and other issues that worsen with age. Do not wait for vision changes before scheduling an exam.

As you age, eye diseases can develop gradually without noticeable symptoms at first. Comprehensive dilated eye exams allow your eye doctor to look for signs of problems before vision loss or major damage occurs. Catching problems early provides the best chance of successful treatment.

Wear Sunglasses Outside

Sun exposure raises your risk of cataracts and macular degeneration later in life. Select sunglasses that block 99-100% of UVA and UVB radiation. Wraparound styles offer added protection. Consider prescription sunglasses with UV filters if you already wear glasses or contacts for any other reason. Protecting your eyes helps preserve your sight.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

A nutritious diet supports good vision at any age. Focus on antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables like spinach, kale, citrus fruits, carrots, and sweet potatoes. Healthy fats like olive oil and nuts also benefit eye health. Supplements are unnecessary if you eat a balanced diet. However, if recommended by your doctor, key nutrients for eye health include zinc, vitamins C and E, omega-3 fatty acids, and lutein. Eat well to see well.

Quit Smoking

Smoking increases the risks of cataracts, optic nerve damage, macular degeneration, and eye inflammation. Secondhand smoke also negatively impacts vision. Quitting dramatically cuts your chances of developing age-related eye disease. Talk to your doctor about smoking cessation plans. Avoid secondhand smoke whenever possible.

The toxins in cigarette smoke cause oxidative damage and deprive eyes of oxygen. This accelerates the aging of the eyes. Smokers are up to three times more likely to develop cataracts and macular degeneration. Those who smoke more than a pack per day have even higher risks. If you smoke, quitting at any age reduces your risk of vision loss.

Manage Chronic Health Conditions

Controlling diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol reduces the risk of vision loss as you get older. Follow your doctor’s medication and lifestyle recommendations for managing these conditions. Monitor blood sugar levels to keep diabetes in check. Have regular eye exams to check for related damage.

Diabetes causes damage to small blood vessels in the retina and is a leading cause of blindness. Keeping blood sugar tightly controlled can significantly reduce the risk. People with diabetes should have a comprehensive eye exam every year. Likewise, high blood pressure stresses the eye’s blood vessels. Work closely with your medical team to keep chronic conditions under control.

Bottom Line

Your eyesight deserves TLC as you age. Do not take your vision for granted. Schedule regular eye exams, eat a healthy diet, quit smoking, and manage chronic diseases. Implementing these simple tips helps ensure that you can continue seeing life’s beauty clearly for many years to come. It is never too early or late to prioritize eye health.

For more eye and vision care tips, visit Opticore Optometry Group at our office in Chino, Redlands, Fontana, or Riverside, California. Call 909-279-2472 or 909-258-4620 to book an appointment today.