Your eyes will go through various changes as you get older. While you might not wear glasses now, at some point you may need them. Certain hereditary and lifestyle factors could also make you more prone to developing age-related eye conditions. However, there are things you can do right now to help improve your eye health even if you are in your 50s.
Tip #1 – Eat a Healthy Diet
Do you remember your parents telling you to eat your carrots because they are good for your eyesight? They weren’t making that up. Foods like carrots that are high in vitamin A are good for eye health. If carrots aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other foods that are rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and vitamin E and essential minerals like zinc and copper that are important for healthy eyes. These nutrients can be found in sweet potatoes, pumpkin, egg yolks, yellow peppers, and dark leafy greens.
Tip #2 – Keep Active
Did you know that you can lower your risk of developing age-related macular degeneration just by exercising three times a week? Walking, swimming, or doing chores around that house that can work up a sweat can help improve your blood circulation and keep your eyes healthier.
Tip #3 – Do Eye Exercises
Your eyes need exercise just like your body does. Ask your eye doctor what eye exercises she or he recommends. The best time to do these exercises is when you wake up, before you go to sleep, or when your eyes feel tired.
Tip #4 – Avoid Eye Strain
UV rays from sunlight, working at a computer screen for long hours, and continuous exposure to blue light on all the many electronics we all use lead to eyestrain. It is important to protect your eyes by always wearing sunglasses while out in the sun. Make use of your computer and other devices’ blue light filters and use ambient lighting in your home whenever possible.
Tip #5 – Don’t Skip Annual Eye Exams
One of the most important ways to ensure continued good eye health during your 50s and beyond is by having a comprehensive eye exam every year. This will allow your eye doctor to detect changes in your vision and in the health of your eyes.
If you haven’t had an eye exam in a while, now is a great time to get back on track to protect your eye health. Give Valley Eyecare Center a call at (602) 955-2700 to schedule your comprehensive eye exam today.
