Aging Well in August
August is National Eye Exam Month, so we will "look" at how our vision can affect us as we age.
The Link Between Vision and Fall Prevention
As we age, various changes occur in our eyes, and while some are minor, others can significantly impact vision and increase the risk of falls. Vision problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can affect visual acuity, depth perception, contrast sensitivity, and peripheral vision.
Cataracts: A clouding of the eye's lens that can lead to blurred vision, difficulty seeing in low light, and increased sensitivity to glare.
Glaucoma: Damages the optic nerve, potentially leading to tunnel vision and peripheral vision loss, impacting the ability to detect obstacles.
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Affects central vision, making tasks like reading or recognizing faces challenging.
These conditions can impair depth perception and balance, increasing the likelihood of falls among seniors. In fact, studies have shown that the risk of falling doubles with any level of vision impairment. Addressing these vision issues through regular eye exams can significantly reduce this risk and help seniors maintain their independence.
Early Detection: Catching Eye Conditions Early
Many age-related eye conditions develop without noticeable symptoms in their early stages. By the time vision loss becomes apparent, the damage may already be irreversible. This highlights the importance of proactive eye care and regular comprehensive eye exams.
Eye exams can reveal much more than just the health of your eyes. They can also provide a glimpse into your overall health, detecting signs of high blood pressure, diabetes, and even some types of cancer.
Recommended Eye Exam Frequency for Seniors
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends adults aged 65 and older have their eyes evaluated thoroughly every year or two. However, those with diabetes, a family history of eye disease, or other risk factors may need more frequent visits, according to the National Eye Institute.
A comprehensive dilated eye exam is crucial for seniors, allowing your eye care professional to get a good look at the back of the eye where many problems first develop. Early detection and treatment can help preserve vision and potentially prevent irreversible damage from conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and AMD.
Simple Steps for Maintaining Eye Health and Preventing Falls
Schedule Annual Eye Exams: Make your eye health a priority by scheduling regular eye exams with an ophthalmologist or optometrist.
Wear Protective Eyewear: Protect your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays by wearing sunglasses outdoors.
Manage Chronic Conditions: Keep conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure under control, as they can increase the risk of eye diseases.
Enhance Home Safety: Improve lighting in your home, especially on stairs and in hallways. Remove tripping hazards like throw rugs and secure electrical cords.
Be Mindful of Eyewear: If you wear multifocal lenses (like bifocals or progressives), consider wearing single-vision distance lenses for activities like walking outdoors or navigating stairs, as they can sometimes distort depth perception.
Stay Active: Engage in exercises that improve strength and balance, such as yoga or tai chi.
Don't wait for symptoms to arise. Take proactive steps this month during National Eye Exam Month to protect your vision and reduce your risk of falls. Schedule your comprehensive eye exam today!
Aging Well is here to support your healthcare needs. Visit us anytime at www.wellbybarnes.com.
This simple recipe highlights the sweetness of roasted carrots and the creaminess of avocado, creating a delicious and eye-healthy salad.
Ingredients:
1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into ½-inch pieces
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon salt
2 small avocados, pitted and sliced or cut into chunks
3 cups arugula or mixed greens
Juice of ½ lime
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Roast the Carrots: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, combine the carrots, olive oil, cumin, red pepper flakes (if using), garlic, and salt. Toss until the carrots are well coated.
Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the roasted carrots, sliced avocado, and arugula or mixed greens.
Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine.
Enjoy this vibrant and nutritious salad as a light meal or a side dish!
