Skip to main content

The Risk for Eye Diseases Increases With Age


Did you know it is estimated 895 million people worldwide will have some level of vision impairment by 2050. The Lancet reports it signals a 150 percent increase over the next 30 years and includes loss of vision from cataracts and glaucoma. Experts say while many vision problems can be treated, in some cases they can also be prevented by adopting simple, healthy habits.

If you have already gotten into the habit of wearing sunscreen and a sun-blocking hat when you are outdoors for any period of time, optometrists say you need to complete your protection by making sure to wear protective sunglasses. Exposure to UV increases our risk for cataracts and your sunglasses should have a label reading “100 percent protection from UV and UVB rays” or “100 percent protection against UV 400.” If you are outside working for long hours, consider wrap-around style sunglasses, and if you are doing work such as trimming bushes or chopping wood, be sure to wear safety sunglasses.

As the risk for eye diseases increase as we age, the National Institute on Aging recommends having your eyes checked regularly by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. Their guidelines advise a dilated eye exam every 1-2 years for those over 60 (African Americans over age 40) or anyone with a family history of glaucoma. Regardless of age, anyone with diabetes or high blood pressure needs to get a dilated exam at least once a year. They go on to say that you should talk to your doctor about what schedule is best for you.

Other ways to protect your eyes as you age is to eat a balanced diet with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables. Additionally, stop smoking, maintain a healthy weight and stay physically active. If you do have high blood pressure or diabetes, you need to learn how to manage them and follow your doctor’s guidelines.

At MorningStar of Pasadena, our beautiful community offers a host of amenities, care services and wellness programs as well as activities to live life to the fullest. Located 10 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles, MorningStar offers 116 independent and assisted living suites in a choice of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has 28 memory care suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. For more information about luxury senior living in Pasadena, CA, please contact us or visit our website.

This post is intended for informational purposes only. Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health or vision.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Pasadena, CA has to offer.

Source: nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/healthy-vision/get-dilated-eye-exam
Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Be an Active Partner in Your Medical Care

Experts suggest that a good way to reduce medical errors regarding your care or that of a loved one is to be an active partner in the process whether in a hospital setting, doctors’ office or the pharmacy. In fact, a study showed 7% of hospitalized patients experienced an event that was considered preventable which negatively affected their health. Furthermore, harmful errors in primary and outpatient health care settings are typically related to diagnoses, prescriptions and use of medicines. Mistakes associated with misdiagnosis result in delayed treatment for the real problem and having the wrong medications prescribed or supplied can cause serious complications. However, it is important to keep in mind that some medical errors are a result of patients failing to disclose all the medications they take including prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Another problem is the failure to reveal pertinent details regarding a person’s prior medical history as well as lifestyle habits s...
Post a Comment
Read more

Adjust Your Attitude toward “Growing Older”

New studies suggest our attitude toward growing older may affect how well we do with our own aging process. Researchers report findings that show those who negatively view aging may have a higher likelihood of developing changes in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease . One such study was published in the American Psychological Association’s journal, Psychology and Aging. Its authors suggest if a person shifts their belief about aging to a more positive view; it may be beneficial in helping to mitigate the ravages of Alzheimer’s. Associate professor of public health and psychology at the Yale School of Public Health and the study’s leader, Becca Levy said, “We believe it is the stress generated by the negative beliefs about aging that individuals sometimes internalize from society that can result in pathological brain changes.” She says while these findings are concerning, “it is encouraging to realize that these negative beliefs about aging can be mitigated, and positive beli...
1 comment
Read more

Companion Living Available at MorningStar’s Community in Houston

MorningStar at River Oaks recognizes that for some, assisted living can seem out of reach for them financially, which is why we strive to help families find ways to make it affordable. One of the solutions we offer is “Companion Living.” This is where two unrelated people of the same sex share a suite, whether in assisted living or memory care. Obviously, it is ideal if you have a relative, friend or acquaintance that is looking for the same type of situation and you can pair up to share a suite with them. However, we know that option is not always available, so we step in and help find a suitable companion for you. We carefully pair residents together based on common backgrounds and interests as that provides a good basis for building a friendship. With this living arrangement, the rent of the shared suite is split. Beyond the financial advantage, companion living can help ease the transition to a senior living community . The presence of a roommate can encourage more confident ...
Post a Comment
Read more