There are more and more Americans today who are suffering from age-related loss of vision, and their numbers may double by 2030, according to the American Foundation for the Blind. Some of the most common eye diseases related to old age include glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration.
If you or your loved one is dealing with dementia or other age-related diseases, the last thing that you need is to have problems with eyesight as well. As you continue to provide care for your loved one and take care of her needs, you should try to remember to keep her eyes healthy as well. Fortunately, there are some simple tips that we all can follow to keep our eyes in good shape:
Keep Exercising
Continuing to work out regularly has many benefits for the heart, brain, and even the eyes. If you break a sweat at least three times per week, people in their middle age and elder years could reduce their chance of macular degeneration by 70%. Even walking regularly makes a big difference!
Increase Anti-Oxidant Use
Eating right plays a very important role in our health, and eating foods that are rich in vitamins C and E can help to prevent macular degeneration and cataracts. So, try to eat plenty of green, leafy veggies, as well as berries nuts, sweet potatoes and citrus fruits. Also, note that the zeaxanthin and lutein that are in those green, leafy veggies could reduce the chance of eye disease too.
Wear Sunglasses
UV radiation has a negative effect on your eyes as well as your skin. If your eyes are not protected, both UVA and UVB rays can hurt your eyes and contribute to cataracts over time. Try to get sunglasses that have 100% UV protection, and you should know that not all sunglasses offer this.
Avoid Cigarette Smoke
Smoking or even being around cigarette smoke can boost your chance of getting many health problems, such as cataract and macular degeneration.
Keep Your Blood Sugar in Check
If your blood sugar and blood pressure fluctuate, you may harm the tiny blood vessels in the back of your eye. This can eventually cause vision trouble and even blindness. Anyone with diabetes should try to keep their blood sugar levels under control.
Guidance for Caregivers for Alzheimer’s Patients
As you continue to provide for the needs for your loved one, you may need some guidance and have some questions answered about the disease. Consider our Family Guide to Alzheimer’s Disease, and also our Complete Eldercare Planner (both pictured below).
