Seven Habits To Protect Vision

In the United States, one sixth of Americans over 65 have visual impairments that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses. This is usually the result of common eye conditions and diseases. Among older Americans, visual impairment is one of the most significant factors in loss of independence; it is also associated with a higher prevalence of chronic diseases, falls, injuries, depression or social isolation.

The following is a list of seven recommendations that senior citizens should follow to help protect their vision:

1- Have an ophthalmological exam.

Adults 65 and older should have an eye exam every year or two. Regular exams are crucial for detecting vision changes that may be symptoms of treatable eye conditions or diseases.

2- Know the symptoms of vision loss.

Signs of vision loss may become apparent as it becomes more difficult to read, write, shop, watch television, drive a car, and / or recognize faces. Vision loss that can be detected by friends and family members includes such things as bumping against objects or causing objects to fall, an unsteady gait, and closing the eyelids or tilting the head when trying to focus the gaze.

3- Eat a healthy diet.

A diet low in fat and abundant in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is beneficial for the entire body, including the eyes. Studies show that foods high in vitamins C and E, zinc, lutein, and zeaxanthin are good for eye health. These nutrients are associated with a lower risk of age-related macular degeneration and dry eye later in life. An unhealthy diet includes citrus fruits, vegetable oils, nuts, whole grains, dark green leafy vegetables, and cold-water fish.

4- Stop smoking.

Cigarette and second-hand smoke should be avoided, these are some of the best investments we can all make for long-term eye health. Smoking increases the risk of eye diseases such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration and increases the risks of cardiovascular diseases that indirectly influence eye health. Tobacco smoke, including that received from smokers, also makes dry eye worse.

5- Maintain normal levels of blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose.

Hypertension and high levels of cholesterol and sugar in the blood increase the risks of vision loss due to eye disease. Controlling these levels is not only healthy for the eyes but for the whole organism.

6- Regularly practice physical activity.

Thirty minutes of exercise a day is not only good for your heart, waist, and energy levels, it is also a huge benefit for your eyes! Many eye diseases are linked to other health problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol levels.

7- Wear sunglasses.

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays increases the risks of eye disease, including cataracts, growth of eye masses, and cancer. When doing outdoor activities, a hat and sunglasses with 100 percent UV protection should be worn.

From: www.aao.org

Seven Habits To Protect Vision