As we journey through life, our eyes tell a story of the sights we've seen and the years we've lived. Like the rest of our body, our eyes undergo natural changes as we age.
Some of these changes are benign, a mere inconvenience of growing older. Others can signal something more serious, requiring professional attention to maintain vision health and overall quality of life.
As you adjust your skincare routine to cater to aging skin, your eyes also require increased attention. Request routine eye exams at Infinity Eye Care to maintain your eye health and overall well-being.
The Natural Progression of Vision in Aging
Presbyopia
This common condition typically begins in our mid-40s. As the eye lens becomes less flexible, it becomes difficult to focus on close objects. Simple tasks like reading a menu or using a smartphone become challenging, often necessitating reading glasses.
Cataracts
Cataracts are a common eye condition that typically develops naturally as people age. They occur when the lens inside the eye, which is normally clear, begins to cloud. This process can result in blurred vision, difficulty seeing in low light, and changes in color perception.
Cataracts usually develop slowly and can affect one or both eyes. The risk increases significantly with age, particularly after 60.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD mainly affects those over 60. This condition involves the deterioration of the macula. The macula is the central part of the retina, which is crucial for sharp, detailed vision.
As AMD progresses, it can lead to a loss of central vision. This makes activities like reading, driving, and recognizing faces challenging.
Glaucoma
Often associated with increased pressure inside the eye, glaucoma can lead to damage to the optic nerve. This condition is insidious because it typically starts without symptoms, making regular screening crucial.
Diabetic Retinopathy
This is a severe eye condition that predominantly affects individuals with diabetes. Living with diabetes for an extended period increases the risk of developing this condition. This risk increases significantly when diabetes is not under control.
Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels cause damage to the blood vessels in the retina. This leads to vision impairment and, potentially, blindness.
When to Visit Your Eye Doctor
While many age-related vision changes are normal, certain symptoms should prompt an immediate visit to your optometrist:
- Sudden loss of vision
- Persistent spots or floaters accompanied by flashes of light
- Severe eye pain or headache
- Curtain-like disappearance of vision
- Any sudden change in your visual field
The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends that adults undergo comprehensive eye exams regularly to ensure optimal eye health.
For those aged 18 to 60, a comprehensive exam every two years is advisable. Individuals over 60 should have their eyes examined annually. These regular check-ups are crucial as they can detect early signs of eye conditions that are more common with age.
Vision Services at Infinity Eye Care
We aim to help you navigate the complexities of age-related vision changes. Our comprehensive eye exams involve a thorough eye health assessment. We also use advanced diagnostic technology to detect signs of macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. We offer personalized treatment plans and preventive care strategies to keep your vision clear and your eyes healthy.
Request an Eye Exam in Radford, VA
Understanding and addressing age-related vision changes are key to maintaining your quality of life. You can protect your vision by staying informed and proactive about eye health. Partnering with eye care professionals at Infinity Eye Care helps you enjoy everything from fine print to grand vistas.