Eyes Wide Open: How to Maintain Eye Health in Your Golden Years

Time flies, and with it come natural changes in the body. Yes, even our eyes, which have served us faithfully throughout our lives, undergo an aging process.

So what are the common changes, and what can we do to maintain good and sharp vision even after age 60?

What happens to our eyes as we age?

These are the common eye problems that people 60+ face:

• Decline in vision quality: A familiar phenomenon that usually begins around age 40. Suddenly it becomes difficult to read the menu at a restaurant, or to recognize faces from a distance.
• Dry eyes: Including sensations of irritation, burning, or eye fatigue. This is also a common phenomenon in older age, occurring due to decreased tear production.
• Eye diseases: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts are two common diseases that can lead to blurred vision and decreased quality of life.

So how can we maintain eye health even in our golden years?

Here are some tips from our expert optometrists:

• Regular eye exams: It's important to have eye exams with a doctor or optometrist regularly, at least once every two years, especially after age 60.
• Proper nutrition: Foods rich in vitamins A, C and E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids contribute to eye health. Examples? Green vegetables, fish, nuts and more. Both tasty and healthy!
• Wear sunglasses: They protect the eyes from harmful radiation that can cause cataracts.
• Take breaks from screens: Extended time in front of a computer or phone causes dry eyes. Take frequent breaks - the news and WhatsApp messages will wait for you.
• Proper lighting: Love to read? Excellent! Just make sure you do it in a well-lit environment, and avoid reading in the dark.

Keep an eye out!

Remember: eyes are our window to the world. Try to follow these tips and you'll be able to maintain sharp vision and enjoy full and experiential daily life for many years to come.

Share this information with older friends and family members, and help them maintain their eye health!