As you go through life, taking care of your health and the well-being of your senses becomes more critical. Your vision is one of them; as you age, it can be challenging to know if you are doing enough to protect your vision. The American Academy of Family Physicians estimates that by age 65, about one-third of older adults have some form of vision loss or eye disease. 

Senior Vision: People Over 60 Years

Your eyesight can vary as you age. But with proper eye care, these changes do not have to lower your quality of life. It is vital to be aware of the potential symptoms of age-related eye health issues that could impair eyesight as the years pass. 

Why Eye Exams for Seniors Are Important 

Numerous eye conditions might not exhibit any early signs. You may not notice changes in your vision until the problem worsens. But by leading a healthy lifestyle, getting regular eye exams, and catching disorders early on, you can significantly increase your chances of retaining good eye health and vision as you age. 

It is crucial to note that health issues affecting other body parts can also impact your vision. People with diabetes, hypertension, or taking medications that can affect the eyes are more likely to experience vision issues. According to the American Optometric Association, everyone over 60 should get an annual eye exam. If you detect any changes in your vision, you must contact your optometrist immediately.

Age-related Vision and Eye Problems

Several eye diseases can affect your vision permanently after you turn 60. The earlier you detect and treat these problems, the more likely you are to retain good eyesight. Some of these include the following:
 

• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye disease that causes central vision loss by affecting the macula. That is the center of the light-sensitive retina at the back of the eye. 
   

• Cataracts are opaque or cloudy areas in the usually clear eye lens that can interfere with normal vision. 
   

• Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that occurs in people with diabetes and results from progressive damage to the retinal blood vessels, which can lead to blindness. 
   

• Dry eye is a common and often chronic problem, particularly in older adults, caused by poor-quality or insufficient tears. 
   

• Glaucoma is a group of ocular diseases characterized by damage to the optic nerve. That can result in loss of peripheral vision and total blindness. 
   

• Retinal detachment is a tearing or separation of the retina from underlying tissue that can cause permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. 

These eye diseases are common in older adults, and early detection and treatment can help preserve vision.

How Often Do Seniors Need Eye Exams?

The frequency of eye exams recommended by eye care experts varies with age and preexisting health conditions. Individuals between the ages of 40-64 should schedule a comprehensive eye examination every two to four years.

For those 65 years and older, an annual visit to an ophthalmologist is best. Additionally, those with preexisting eye conditions or concerns about family history should consult an eye doctor to determine the appropriate examination schedule.

Bottom Line

Routine eye exams should be a part of your yearly or biannual physicals. However, it is crucial to go above and beyond as you age. As you get older, it is normal for your prescription to change and your 20/20 vision to deteriorate. So, it is crucial to see an ophthalmologist more frequently. That will help your eye doctor discover any problems at an early stage.

For more on eye exams for seniors, visit SeePort Optometry at our North Port, Florida office. Call (941) 876-4400 to schedule an appointment today.