Why Are Eye Exams Imperative for Seniors?

Vision and eye health are topics that lots of people don’t think about too much until they’re affected by something else. Seniors who aren’t going to eye appointments every year might find that they’re having a lot more difficulty with daily tasks. Personal care at home can help with these tasks and preserve independence for seniors, but it’s still vital to get to those eye exams, too.

Eye Health Changes Over Time

Eye health is an important aspect of health for seniors in particular. As the body ages, the risk of developing certain eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and age-related macular degeneration increases. Seniors should prioritize regular eye exams in order to maintain clear vision and to catch any eye diseases in the early stages. Challenges like not driving any longer might make it more difficult to get to appointments, but home care providers can assist with transportation.

Eye Exams Help Detect Problems

Regular eye exams allow for early detection of any potential eye issues that may arise as well as maintain clear vision. Eye exams are especially important for seniors as age-related eye diseases can often be treated more effectively in the early stages. Additionally, regular eye exams can help reduce the risk of falls due to poor vision. If a senior notices a change in their vision, they should be sure to schedule an appointment with their optometrist immediately.

Vision Loss Is the Biggest Risk Seniors Face

If a senior chooses not to prioritize regular eye exams, they may be at risk of vision loss due to an untreated eye condition. Glaucoma can cause permanent injury to the optic nerve. If left to continue, that damage can lead to blindness. Cataracts are also a common eye condition among seniors. This condition occurs when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, causing vision to be blurred. Early detection and treatment of cataracts can help reduce the risk of vision loss.

Tests During an Eye Exam

Sometimes seniors are worried about what the eye exam is going to be like, so they don’t prioritize the appointment. Glaucoma tests involve a machine blowing a puff of air onto the surface of the eye to measure the pressure within the eye. Other tests might involve pictures of the retina as well as an in-depth exam by the eye doctor.

Being Proactive about Eye Health Is Important

Seniors who aren’t able to see well may need more help with daily activities like bathing, getting dressed, and grooming. Personal care at home can help with all of these tasks on a daily basis. Caregivers can also be there to assist with mobility and other concerns. Staying on top of eye health helps to reduce the problems that can lead to permanent vision loss.

Seniors need to prioritize eye exams regularly in order to protect their vision and ensure that their eyes are healthy. Avoiding these appointments doesn’t mean that seniors won’t eventually have trouble with their vision, so it’s important to make it easier for them to get to these appointments and to take care of their eye health at home.

If you or an aging loved one is considering personal care at home in Chandler, AZ, please call the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Scottsdale at (480) 284-7360. We are here to help!