It is normal for your vision to change as you get older. But that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t also be more vigilant about eye care. Here are five tips that can help keep your aging eyes healthy.
1. Protect Your Eyes from the Sun
Ultraviolet rays from the sun can accelerate the aging of your eyes and cause cataracts and quicken the process of age-related macular degeneration. Eye professionals recommend that you wear 100 percent UV blocking, wrap-around sunglasses to provide the most optimal protection from the sun. It is also a good idea to wear a wide-brimmed hat when you are outdoors to keep the sun off your face and out of your eyes.
2. Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet full of vitamins and antioxidants, will help reduce your risk of age-related eye problems, including cataracts and macular degeneration. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables that contain lutein and zeaxanthin like spinach, carrots, squash, and citrus fruits. Do not forget to take a multivitamin to ensure that you are getting complete nutrition.
3. If You Smoke, Quit
Smoking increases your risk of developing serious eye conditions because it reduces blood flow to your eyes. If you have diabetes, your risk for diabetic retinopathy will be higher if you smoke. You will also be at a higher risk for macular degeneration if you smoke.
4. Get Proper Rest
As you get older, you need to make sure you get enough rest. If you are overtired, your risk of eyestrain increases. Getting proper rest refreshes your eyes along with the rest of your body, and is important for good eye health.
5. Don’t Forget Your Annual Eye Exam
The most important thing you can do for your eye care is to get an annual eye exam. This is the best way to keep track of your eye health and catch any problems early. Your eye doctor will look for signs of certain eye conditions like macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, or retinal damage.
If you notice changes in your vision, do not wait until your yearly exam to contact Valley Eyecare Center. Call 602-955-2700 or schedule an appointment online with one of our eye doctors.
