It’s common knowledge that the body undergoes various changes as the years pass. However, some of those changes might come as a surprise. For instance, changes in the eyes due to aging might lead some seniors to depend on eye drops as a treatment for conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and dry eyes. Even though these drops can help relieve symptoms and preserve eye health, seniors need to understand the possible risks that might occur with consistent use. Seniors with in-home care providers and support from loved ones can review the information presented here together to ensure they are using the drops safely.
This blog will examine the dangers of eye drops for seniors, along with safe usage guidelines.
Dependency and Overuse
Eye drops can be easily overused, which is one of the main risks of using them. Seniors may unintentionally grow dependent on them, even if their intended uses are to treat certain eye problems and relieve discomfort. Overuse of eye drops may result in rebound redness, a condition in which stopping the drops causes the eyes to grow even redder. This cycle may worsen the initial problem and prolong the need for eye drops.
Medication Interactions
Seniors frequently take medications to treat different medical issues, which might increase the risk of interactions if the medication they take interferes with eye drops. In addition, certain eye drops might have components that cause negative side effects or lower the effectiveness of the eye drops or other treatments. To prevent any issues, seniors should make sure their healthcare practitioners are aware of every medicine they take. With in-home care, they can gather the information they need to discuss the issue with their medical team.
Possible Allergic Reactions
Preservatives and other substances in some eye drops have the potential to cause allergic responses, especially in seniors with sensitive eyes. With in-home care, seniors can watch for reactions to allergens, such as swelling, redness, itching, or even more serious symptoms. If an allergic response occurs, seniors should talk to their doctor right away.
Higher Intraocular Pressure
Certain eye drops function by lowering intraocular pressure, especially those that are prescribed for glaucoma. Seniors, however, might be more vulnerable to these drugs’ systemic absorption, which could have an impact on other bodily areas. To properly manage eye diseases while reducing potential dangers, healthcare providers must constantly evaluate elders for side effects and make necessary adjustments to drug regimens.
Application Difficulty
Seniors who are experiencing cognitive decline, diminished dexterity, or impaired vision may find it difficult to apply eye drops correctly. Inadequate administration or pharmaceutical waste can undermine the treatment’s efficacy. To improve convenience of use, seniors may need to utilize in-home care for proper administration.
Eye drops are useful for treating a variety of eye diseases in the elderly, but it’s important to use caution when using them. With in-home care by their side, seniors can watch for side effects and modify treatment plans as necessary. Seniors can continue to put their eye health first while reducing needless risks if they are aware of the possible problems connected to eye drops.
Sources: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279326/
https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2023/eye-drops-common-mistakes.html
https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/are-eyedrops-safe-fda-warning-2023-rcna122967
https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/right-eye-drops-dry-eyes
If you or an aging loved one are considering In-Home Care Services in Monterey TN please contact the caring staff at Senior Solutions Home Care. (931) 208-1019
Senior Solutions Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Cookeville, Algood, Baxter, Monterey, Sparta, Smithville, Livingston, Dodson Branch, Gainesboro, Putnam County, and surrounding areas.
Over the years, we have expanded, providing service in all 95 counties throughout Tennessee, and we now have a growing presence in Georgia.
Senior Solutions is recognized as a top 5% independent agency and a three-time Inc. 5000 honoree in 2018, 2019, and 2020. These types of awards matter to us because they show growth in our goal of eventually touching a million lives. We’re excited to continue that growth and to touch even more families with our commitment to quality care!
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