As we enter the month of August, it’s important to emphasize an important health observance: National Eye Exam Month. This month-long campaign, sponsored by Vision Council of America (VCA), highlights the importance of eye health and routine eye examinations. For seniors, maintaining good vision is vital for overall well-being and quality of life. Here’s a closer look at why eye exams are especially important for older adults and how you or your aging loved one can preserve your vision.

Why Eye Health Matters for Seniors

As we age, our eyes undergo many changes that can impact vision.  Left undiagnosed and untreated, certain vision problems can severely impact the ability for older adults to remain active and independent. Common age-related eye conditions include:

• Cataracts: Clouding of the lens, leading to blurry vision.
• Glaucoma: Increased pressure in the eye, potentially damaging the optic nerve.
• Macular Degeneration: Deterioration of the central part of the retina, affecting central vision.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: Damage to the blood vessels in the retina caused by diabetes.

Benefits of Regular Eye Exams

Regular exams can prevent significant vision loss and improve quality of life for older adults. Benefits include:

• Early Detection of Eye Conditions: Regular exams can detect problems like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration early when they are most treatable.
• Overall Health Monitoring: A routine eye exam can reveal signs of other health issues such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Updated Prescriptions: Your eye doctor can ensure your glasses or contact lenses are up-to-date, which helps prevent headaches, eye strain, and improve daily functioning.
• Preventing Falls: Good vision is essential for balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls and other age-related injuries.

Tips for Maintaining Eye Health

While many age-related vision changes are inevitable, there are some proactive steps older adults can take to maintain healthy eyesight and reduce the risk of vision problems.

1. Aim for at least one comprehensive eye exam per year.
2. Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses that block UV rays. Use protective eyewear when necessary.
3. Keep chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension under control.
4. Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc, and vitamins C and E to support eye health.
5. Quit smoking, as this habit increases the risk of eye diseases like macular degeneration and cataracts.

Vista Grande Villa’s Commitment to Your Eye Health

At Vista Grande Villa, our residents benefit from a proactive approach to maintaining eye health and overall well-being. Free transportation with Vista’s shuttle to local medical appointments as needed to ensure early detection and management of common eye conditions; nutritional support is provided through well-balanced meals known to support healthy vision; and educational workshops on eye wellness empower residents to take care of their vision and general health.

For more information about our community, contact Vista today schedule a tour.