It is estimated that nearly one in every three elders lives with some sort of vision problem by the age of 65. Some of these problems can lead to complications and even blindness in rare cases. Fortunately, vision conditions also show early signs or symptoms and it’s important not to ignore them.
Are you aware of the signs of vision problems? And if you see them in your family members, what can you do to treat these problems and prevent more complex vision conditions? Keep reading to find out more about the early signs of vision impairment, so you can help your loved ones better.
Eye Pain Might Be Linked to Glaucoma
Glaucoma is caused by too much pressure building up in the eye. This is a common vision problem among the elderly, but it can also affect young people. It might be kept under control with drops, but advanced glaucoma requires surgery to restore proper vision. If your loved ones complain of chronic eye pain then it’s paramount to visit an ophthalmologist and ask for his/her opinion.
Seeing Floaters Might Signify Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment is another complex vision problem and it might lead to blindness. The retina is situated at the back of the eye and that’s where the image is formed. Those who experience retinal detachment report seeing floaters, lights, and even having hallucinations. This is a surefire sign that the eyes are unhealthy and you need to take action immediately to protect the vision of your loved ones.
Cloudy Vision Might Be Caused by Cataracts
Cataracts consist of the gradual thickening of the eye lens. The lens should remain transparent to allow light to pass through. If it gets thicker and more opaque, it might lead to blindness in worst-case scenarios. The common symptoms of cataracts are cloudy and/or fuzzy vision. Some elderly also complain of double vision.
Red Eyes Might Be Caused by Corneal Disease
The cornea consists of the outer layer of the eye. It’s an important element when it comes to healthy vision and the cornea needs to be permanently moist to ensure clear eyesight. However, this part of the eye can also become infected. Constant red eyes might be a sign of corneal disease and this issue needs to be investigated immediately to avoid complications.
Blind Spots Are Associated with Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is common among the elderly also diagnosed with diabetes type 2. Too much sugar in the bloodstream might affect the optic nerve. This can lead to blind spots forming on the retina. If your family members cannot see properly with one or both eyes, make sure that you visit an ophthalmologist for a more complex eyesight assessment. Diabetic retinopathy might be successfully treated if it’s caught early.
Elders who are part of a well-established senior living community live healthier and happier lives. Get in touch with one of our team members today to learn more about our senior living programs and how we can make your loved ones feel nurtured every day.
