One of the most important things that seniors can do to safeguard their health is to protect their eye health. As seniors get older some vision loss is normal. Seniors who are aging in place may experience vision loss that makes it difficult to do things like read the labels on a shampoo or body wash bottle. Or they may struggle to read the signs indicating which tap is hot and which is cold in the shower. Seniors with vision loss can rely on veterans care at home providers to help them with activities of daily living like showering. Veterans care at home can help seniors avoid things like mistaking hygiene products or not being able to put on makeup.
However, seniors may be able to prevent some serious medical conditions that cause vision loss by making better lifestyle choices. Some things seniors can do to protect their eye health as they get older are:
Get An Eye Exam Every Year
Seniors should be getting an eye exam every year. The best way to prevent vision loss is to have regular screenings for common eye disorders that impact seniors. In some cases seniors may be able to prevent permanent vision loss with early detection of eye disorders. Seniors who experience any change in their vision should get an eye exam right away.
Eat Those Leafy Greens
A balanced and nutritious diet can significantly impact eye health. Seniors should consume foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. Foods like leafy greens, citrus fruits, nuts, fish, and colorful vegetables can support eye health.
Always Wear Sunglasses
Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the eyes and increase the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions. Seniors should wear sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection when outdoors, even on cloudy days.
Quit Smoking
Most seniors who smoke know that they are putting themselves at risk for a wide range of health problems by smoking. But, it can be tough to quit, especially if seniors have been smoking for a long time. Seniors should make quitting a priority though. Smoking is linked to an increased risk of developing cataracts, AMD, and other eye problems.
Manage Chronic Health Problems
Chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension can affect eye health. Seniors should work with their healthcare provider to manage these conditions effectively, as uncontrolled diabetes can lead to diabetic retinopathy and hypertension can increase the risk of glaucoma.
Avoid Eye Strain
Seniors who spend extended periods on computers, tablets, or smartphones should practice the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and focus on something 20 feet away to reduce eye strain. Seniors should also avoid watching TV for hours at a time. Seniors should practice good TV hygiene by making sure the TV isn’t too close, too far, or too high for comfort.
Upgrade The House Lighting
Seniors need to have good lighting in their homes, especially if their homes are older and tend to be dark. Daylight bulbs that mimic the brightness of the sun are good to have in areas like the kitchen and living room. Softer bulbs are best for bedrooms. Seniors should consider adding LED lights to hallways and stairs to help prevent falls.
Manage Dry Eyes
Dry eyes are common as people age. Seniors can use over-the-counter artificial tears or talk to their eye doctor about other treatment options if they experience dry eye symptoms.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Veterans Care at Home Services in Dodson Branch 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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