How to Make Life Easier and Safer for Older Adults with Low Vision
Many people would consider losing their eyesight one of the worst losses they could endure. While most of us will not suffer from complete blindness, millions currently live with some form of visual impairment.
According to the National Eye Institute (NEI), older adults represent the majority of the visually impaired population in the United States. While vision loss later in life is common, it can be particularly difficult for seniors to accept and adapt to as other senses like hearing, smell and taste also tend to weaken with age. Use the following tips to ensure an aging loved one properly cares for their eyes and takes advantage of all resources at their disposal to help them remain active in spite of vision loss.
Keeping an Eye on Visual Health
One of the first steps to leading a safe and active life with impaired vision is understanding the degree and underlying cause of this loss.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends individuals age 65 and older get a dilated medical eye exam every year or two, or as recommended by their ophthalmologist. During a routine eye exam, the ophthalmologist will evaluate a patient’s eyesight and assess the overall health and function of both eyes. Screening for new or worsening eye conditions and maintaining a current prescription for eyeglasses and/or contacts are crucial for optimal visual function at any age.
For most people, vision loss is a very gradual process, so seniors (and their family members) may not be aware of how compromised their eyesight has become. Caregivers can help keep…
Continue reading on Agingcare for more about low vision and how we can help:
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Leslie Kernisan, MD, MPH, is offering two free caregiver training webinars to people who notice that their aging parents need some help now or will in the future. Sign up now to receive the free newsletter from Better Health While Aging and, if you choose, view two great caregiving webinars that can help you help your older parents (and yourself). Or you can go directly to the trainings page.
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