Taking care of your eyes becomes increasingly important as we age. Scheduling regular eye can help detect changes in vision and catch potential eye issues early. Here are a few reasons why regular eye exams are essential and tips for protecting your vision as you get older.

1. Detecting Age-Related Eye Conditions

Many eye conditions become more common with age. Regular eye exams can help detect these conditions early, which is often crucial for effective treatment. Some common age-related eye conditions include cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

2. Monitoring Vision Changes

Our vision can change gradually over time. Eye exams help monitor these changes and update prescriptions for glasses or contact lenses as needed. Uncorrected vision problems can affect your quality of life, making daily tasks like reading and driving more difficult.

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3. Preventing Eye Strain and Discomfort

With the increasing use of digital devices, eye strain has become a common issue for people of all ages. An eye doctor can identify signs of eye strain and provide recommendations to reduce discomfort, such as adding proper lighting, adjusting font size or screen brightness, and taking regular screen breaks.

4. Early Detection of Other Health Issues

Eye exams can also reveal signs of systemic health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and even high cholesterol. Changes in the blood vessels and tissues in your eyes can be early indicators of these conditions.

5. Maintaining Overall Eye Health

Staying up to date with your eye exams provide an opportunity to discuss overall eye health with your eye care professional. They can offer advice on types of eyewear, protective eyewear such as sunglasses or safety glasses, and even vision-friendly nutrition.

Tips for Taking Care of Your Eyes

  • Schedule Regular Eye Exams: Adults over 60 should have a full eye exam at least once a year. If you have existing eye problems or risk factors for eye diseases, your doctor may recommend more frequent exams.
  • Know Your Family History: Some eye conditions are genetic. Knowing your family history can help your eye doctor assess your risk.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest information on eye health and treatments for age-related conditions.
  • Follow Doctor’s Recommendations: Follow recommended treatment plans and make follow-up appointments to manage any diagnosed conditions.

As we age, regular eye exams are an increasingly important part of maintaining good eye health. They can help detect age-related eye conditions, monitor changes in your prescription, prevent eye strain, and identify systemic health issues. By scheduling regular eye exams and following eye care best practices, you can protect your vision and enjoy better eye health throughout your life.

This article is meant for informational purposes only. If you have questions or would like further information, make an appointment with your primary care provider.

This blog post was first published on WFMCHealth.org.