As we age, our vision often changes, but not all changes are a normal part of the aging process. There are some that are expected, but others may be caused by eye diseases that become more common in older adults. Difficulty focusing on close objects that may require reading glasses, the ability to see well in dim lighting, increasing sensitivity to glare, or colors that appear less vivid than they once did- these are just a few of the normal age-related vision changes. Cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy are just a few of the diseases that can significantly affect vision in older adults.

Poor vision in older adults can often lead to an increased risk of falls and fractures and other challenges, including reading, driving, and medication management. Challenges may reduce independence, cause social isolation and depression, and lower overall quality of life.

To minimize the loss of vision, older adults should:

1. Have comprehensive eye examinations every 1–2 years, or more often if recommended, and use appropriate corrective lenses

2. Manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Keep blood sugar under control if you are diabetic and control high blood pressure and cholesterol with medication

3. Wear sunglasses that block 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays and wear wide-brim hats when outdoors

4. Eat a balanced diet rich in leafy green vegetables, fruits, omega-3 fatty acids, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Important nutrients like Vitamins A, C, and E, Lutein, Zeaxanthin, and Zinc are all beneficial

5. Avoid smoking as it can damage the optic nerve and increase the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration

6. Ensure adequate lighting at home

7. Regular exercise improves blood circulation to the eyes and can help reduce the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.

Immediate evaluation by an eye care professional is needed if a person develops sudden loss of vision, onset of sudden flashes of light or a large number of new floaters, severe or excessive eye pain with redness, experiences a curtain-like shadow over part of your vision, or sudden double vision.

Having routine eye care with your provider, early treatment of eye diseases, management of chronic diseases, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and protecting your eyes from UV light can preserve vision and help older adults maintain independence and quality of life.

Senior Law Solutions, LLC offers a variety of opportunities to assist individuals and their families with aspects of Elder Law Care, Estate Planning, and Life Care Planning with individualized plans.

If you have questions or want to learn more, visit www.seniorls.com or call 334. 758.9400. Senior Law Solutions is located at 1043 Ambassador Court, Montgomery, Alabama 36117.