Even if you do not need glasses now, most adults will begin to notice changes in their vision as they near their 50s. Taking care of your eyes becomes even more important as you get older because your risk of developing eye diseases increases. Here are five simple tips for maintaining your eye health in your 50s.
Tip #1 – Don’t Neglect Your Health
Your overall health can have a direct impact on your eye health. Health conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes puts you at a higher risk for certain eye diseases like diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, or macular degeneration. It is vital to continue working with your doctor to keep your health conditions under control.
Tip #2 – Stop Smoking
You already know the damage that smoking can do to your lungs. But did you know it can also increase your risk of developing cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, or optical nerve damage? As we age, our circulatory systems begin to slow down with delivering oxygen and nutrients throughout our bodies. Smoking has an even more detrimental effect on the circulatory system, which then further deprives your eyes of what they need to stay healthy.
Tip #3 – Minimize UV Exposure
The sun’s UV rays can cause damage to both the surface and deep structures of your eyes, including your retinas. Always wear sunglasses when you go outdoors. This will help reduce your chances of damaging your eyes.
Tip #4 – Protect Your Eyes from Injury
Injuries to your eyes can put your eye health at risk. Whether you are working with tools, doing yardwork, or using caustic household cleaners, you should protect your eyes to prevent trauma that can cause vision loss.
Tip #5 – Don’t Skip Your Yearly Eye Exam
You may not notice gradual changes to your vision or eye health. This is why it is essential for all older adults to have their eyes examined once a year or as recommended by your eye doctor. When caught in its earliest stages, eye diseases like cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration can be treated to prevent or put-off vision loss.
Stay on track with your eye health with Valley Eyecare Center. Call (602) 955-2700 to schedule your next eye exam.
