Changes in your bodily functions and processes are expected as you age. Most of these are noticeable as you pass the age of 40. In this post, your eye doctor will discuss what you can do to to maintain your eyesight.
As you get older, one of the first things you may notice with your eyesight is having difficulty seeing things clearly, particularly objects near you. This is why many adults hold their phones or reading materials an arm’s length away. This condition is called presbyopia. It happens when the lenses of your eyes become more rigid, making it hard for them to focus.
Cataracts are another common problem among the aging population. This condition causes cloudy vision, making it a challenge for you to see clearly, especially at night. Your optometrist also wants you to be wary of signs of macular degeneration. This occurs when the macula, a part of your eye that helps you see clearly, begins to deteriorate over time. When this happens, you may notice a progressive decline in the sharpness of your eyesight. You might start having a hard time seeing things in front of you.
While most vision changes are unavoidable as you age, there are steps you can take to maintain your eye health and slow down the progression of visual changes. For one, be sure to eat foods rich in eye-friendly nutrients. These include green, leafy vegetables, citrus fruits and deep-water fish.
If you’re a smoker, it may be best to stop smoking now. This way, oxygen-carrying blood can easily reach your eyes, ensuring the continuous functioning of the different parts of your eyes. Most importantly, do not forget to schedule regular appointments with your eye care specialist. Having routine eye exams is the single best way to keep your eyes in good health. During your visits, your eye care expert may even recommend management options, like wearing specific eyeglasses, to help you see better even in your advanced age.
To learn more about healthy aging eyes, you can reach us at (717) 609-4443 or fill out our contact form. We serve Chambersburg and the surrounding PA communities.