Most people are affected by vision loss as they age. Typically, age-related vision loss starts in your 40’s and continues to progress with time. It is estimated that 7 million people in the United States over the age of 65 have severe vision impairment.
Some eye conditions can be corrected with contact lenses or glasses, but other eye diseases can’t be fixed with corrective lenses. The leading causes of eye diseases experienced by the elderly include:
It is essential to maintain regular eye exams so your optometrist can provide recommendations and treatment. Certain treatments can be used to slow the progress of the disease, helping you maintain good vision for as long as possible.
One of the challenges of age-related vision loss is when an eye condition affects someone that you love. Seniors want to maintain independence as long as possible, but it is difficult to take care of daily responsibilities when vision is failing.
It can be helpful for you to offer guidance and support in obtaining the vision care that is needed in this time of life. The person might need help booking the exam and getting to the optometrist’s office on the day of the appointment.
The best way to help a loved one feel good about the situation is to be open about health concerns. Don’t try to hide information. Instead, share open communication about the situation and treatment options.
When you are facing tough decisions regarding the care of a family member, it can be helpful to have an Independent Senior Placement Specialist provide information and advice about the best facilities and treatments that are available. The reality is that your loved one needs additional support. You can talk to an expert, such as Rebecca Prouty at Always Best Care.
For more information about age-related eye diseases, contact Dr. Gio Venitelli and Dr. Katie Dugan of Temecula and Murrieta Creek Optometry. Schedule an exam at one of the local offices: Murrieta at (951) 600-9226 or Temecula at (951) 302-1331.