Seeing Clearly

A Unique Guide to Healthy Aging Eyes

Aging gracefully isn’t just about gaining wisdom and enjoying fine wine; it’s also about keeping our vision clear and our eyes healthy. Contrary to what many believe, vision loss isn’t an inevitable part of getting older. And with some health and loving vision care we can help maintain sharp and vibrant vision well into our golden years.

Presbyopia

Around age 40, our eyes decide to play a little trick on us. Suddenly, reading that restaurant menu or deciphering tiny sewing patterns becomes a challenge. Welcome to presbyopia—the age-related decline in near vision. Don’t worry! Reading glasses, contact lenses, and even new eye drop medications can help.

Night Owl Eyes

As we age, our eyes take longer to adjust in the dark. This is due to those rod cells—the night vision champs—losing their efficiency. When driving at night, take it slow, and consider daytime outings instead. You can also opt for enhancing driving lenses which can provide optimized comfort and acuity.  These special lenses will maximize your nighttime vision and make you feel safer driving at night.

Dry Eyes

Dry eyes can feel like a Sahara vacation for your eyes. Older adults produce fewer tears, leading to discomfort and irritation. Menopausal women might especially relate. Consult your eye doctor regarding your dry eye symptoms.  As there are so many solutions including IPL treatment that provide relief as well as some aesthetic benefits.

Contrast Sensitivity

Ever stared at a white cup of milk and wondered where the milk went? That’s contrast sensitivity playing tricks. Combat it by using contrasting colors around your home. Maybe swap that white cup for a brightly colored one.

Floaters and Flashes

The vitreous gel inside our eyes gets a little unruly with age, causing floaters—those tiny squiggles drifting across your vision. Occasional flashes of light can happen too. If they increase significantly, talk to your eye care provider.

Glare Sensitivity

Certain eye conditions make us more sensitive to glare, which can be uncomfortable and annoying over time. If wearing a wide-brimmed hat doesn’t seem like a practical solution, consider investing in eyewear with anti-reflective lenses. There are so many options available and advanced lenses not only minimize glare but also provide a range of additional benefits. They shield your eyes and lenses from reflections, scratching, smudging, and harmful UV light, ensuring long-lasting transparency, 

Cataracts

Half of people over 75 develop cataracts, a condition where the lens inside our eyes becomes cloudy. But don’t worry! Modern medicine can work wonders. Your eye doctor will let you know if you have cataracts and may recommend cataract surgery. Think of the surgery as a lens upgrade, like switching to HD vision.

Aging Eyes, Bright Futures

Remember, our eyes are like vintage cameras—each wrinkle tells a story. Embrace the wisdom lines and care for your eyes. Wear those shades, eat leafy greens, and stay active.   

More importantly, keep your vision health at the forefront by seeing your eye doctor regularly.  Regular eye exams are essential to maintaining good vision and overall eye health. Don’t wait until problems arise—schedule your annual eye exam today and ensure your eyes stay as sharp and clear as possible. Your future self will thank you!ticle written by: Dolly Bakaletz