Keeping Your Eyes Healthy Over 60

Top Eye Concerns for Seniors

As we get older, the risks of developing eye disease increase—but the good news is that there are some preventative measures you can take to reduce your risk. Learning how to take care of your eyes can make all the difference. Here are some tips.

Don’t Miss Regular Eye Exams

Eye exams are vital when it comes to keeping on top of your eye health. Typically, you should have an eye exam every year but speak to your eye doctor should you have exceptional circumstances in which you would need multiple visits.

Know the Warning Signs of Eye Problems

Ignoring issues with your eyes won’t necessarily make them go away. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms or other abnormalities, contact your ophthalmologist.

• Sudden or severe eye pain
• Heavy eye discharge
• Burning and itching of the eye
• Blurred, hazy, or double vision
• Seeing flashes of light
• Swollen, red eyes
• Changes in the color of the iris
• White areas in the pupil
• Sudden vision changes or loss

Eat a Healthy Diet

Did you know that some foods can help improve eye health? Add foods to your diet that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamins C and E, such as:

• Green leafy vegetables (kale and spinach)
• Oily fish such as salmon or tuna
• Non-meat protein sources such as eggs, beans, and nuts
• Citrus fruits such as oranges

Common Eye Problems for Older Adults

While eye problems can happen at any age, older adults are at higher risk of developing the following:

• Age-related macular degeneration
• Glaucoma
• Cataracts
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Corneal disease
• Loss of vision

With regular eye exams and adopting a healthy diet, people over 60 can lower their risk of eye disease and keep their peepers in tip-top shape!