Understanding Eye Health for Older People

In truth, most people have normal age-related vision changes; others have vision changes associated with diseases, such as diabetes. Some people retain good vision well into their 70s and 80s, but most people can expect some visual impairment. The number of people with vision impairment will increase in 2011 as the baby boomers turn 65 and double by 2030 as they continue to age.

Normal age-related vision loss is called presbyopia. Presbyopia is caused by hardening of the lens of the eye and usually begins after age 40. Presbyopia isn’t a disease but rather a natural aging process, and it can be diagnosed by a simple eye examination.

Presbyopia is the inability to focus on near objects but is different then being farsighted (hyperopia), which is also associated with difficulty seeing close objects. With presbyopia, you may start to have difficulty reading, using the computer, or performing other day-to-day activities that involve things nearby. People with presbyopia often hold reading material at arm’s length, trying to bring the words into focus. You may also complain of a headache from straining while reading or at work.

If your vision has never been corrected before, you may be able to get away with using drugstore reading glasses for some time – maybe even forever. But the most common treatment of presbyopia is prescription contact lenses or glasses. Eventually, you may need bifocals or trifocals, which incorporate reading glasses along with vision corrective lenses. You may also consider surgical options for correction, such as LASIK (laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis) and lens implants. Consult your doctor to evaluate the best option for you. Although presbyopia is a naturally occurring process rather than a disease, a number of diseases do cause vision changes that have different symptoms and treatments. Never assume that all vision loss in inevitable and unpreventable until seen by a medical doctor. A number of these diseases can be treated and the damage to your vision can be stopped or diminished. If vision changes come on suddenly, see an ophthalmologist (a medical doctor who specializes in treatment of the eye).

Seeing an eye doctor at regular intervals can help you recognize eye problems early and decrease further damage. Don’t assume that it’s just “normal vision loss” if you start to notice poor night vision, blurry vision, or floaters. The American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests the following exam schedule for people who have no visual problems:

• Every 5 to 10 years under age 40
• Every 2 to 4 years between ages 40 and 64
• Every 1 to 2 years beginning at age 65

If you have diabetes or other medical ailments that can affect your eyesight, make sure that they’re treated correctly and strictly. Eye examinations under these conditions need to be done more frequently, usually at least yearly unless recommended differently by your doctor. Report any sudden change in your vision to your doctor immediately.