As we age, our eyes naturally undergo changes that can lead to vision problems. In fact, according to a 2023 study published in JAMA Ophthalmology, more than 1 in 4 people aged 71 and older experienced visual impairment in 2021, much higher than previous estimates. This is partly due to the early symptoms of age-related eye conditions, such as glaucoma, going unnoticed. Worryingly, these issues can worsen over time, making everyday activities like reading, night driving, and distinguishing colors more difficult.
The good news is that many vision problems can be managed with proactive strategies. Here are four essential eye health habits every older adult should adopt to preserve their vision and quality of life.
Address presbyopia with reading glasses
Presbyopia is an age-related condition that affects nearly all adults over 40. As the eye’s lens loses its flexibility, focusing on close objects becomes increasingly challenging. Left unaddressed, presbyopia can diminish an individual’s independence and quality of life.
The simplest solution is wearing reading glasses, which act as magnifying lenses that help you see things up close again. For those with multiple refractive errors, progressive readers offer a seamless transition between different focal lengths. Trusted retailer Foster Grant, for one, has a range of multifocals that come with three strengths in each lens. This eliminates the need for multiple pairs of glasses, enhancing vision while improving comfort during daily tasks.
Protect your eyes with sunglasses
In addition to age-related changes, external factors like UV rays pose a significant risk to eye health. UV light penetrates eye tissues more easily than visible light and prolonged UV exposure can increase the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions.
To protect your sight, experts recommend wearing sunglasses whenever you’re outdoors. When shopping for sunglasses, choose pairs with UV-blocking lenses that shield your eyes from 100% of UV rays. They must also be well-fitted and prevent light from entering around the edges. It’s also best to opt for sunglasses from reputable brands like Ray-Ban and Oakley, as they are guaranteed to adhere to safety standards. By adopting this habit, you can significantly reduce the risk of UV-related eye damage while enjoying your time outdoors.
Implement better screen practices
As we discussed in a previous post, the average American spends about 10 hours a day in front of screens. Studies show that excessive screen time can strain the eyes, cause discomfort, and even disrupt sleep patterns. For older adults, these effects can be particularly pronounced, as age-related changes may already make focusing more challenging.
To mitigate screen-related eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. Adjusting your screen’s brightness and font size, reducing glare with an anti-glare screen filter, and ensuring your screen is at eye level can also help. Limiting screen time, especially in the evening, promotes healthier eyes and better sleep.
Undergo comprehensive eye exams
According to the National Eye Institute, about half of all vision loss and blindness cases are preventable with prompt diagnosis and timely treatment. The most effective way to detect problems early is through comprehensive eye exams. These exams assess the overall health of your eyes and spot conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration in their early, treatable stages.
As such, the American Optometric Association recommends annual eye exams for adults of all ages, regardless of whether they are at risk. This is a change from previous guidelines, which only advised annual exams for adults 65 and older or those with risk factors. Regular exams are crucial for catching vision problems before they progress, ensuring your eyes remain as healthy as possible.
By addressing presbyopia, protecting your eyes from UV rays, limiting screen time, and scheduling regular eye exams, you can safeguard your vision and maintain your independence. These small but impactful habits can make a significant difference in preserving your quality of life for years to come.