As we age, our eyes undergo various changes that can affect vision. Dr. John Meyers shares tips for maintaining eye health and managing age-related vision changes to ensure you continue seeing clearly as you get older.

1. Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting age-related eye conditions early. Dr. Meyers recommends annual comprehensive eye exams for individuals over 60 to monitor for issues like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.

2. Eat a Healthy Diet

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids supports eye health. Foods like leafy greens, fish, and nuts provide essential nutrients that help protect against age-related eye conditions.

3. Stay Physically Active

Regular physical activity improves circulation and overall health, which benefits your eyes. Exercise can help reduce the risk of conditions like diabetes and hypertension that can impact eye health.

4. Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays

UV rays from the sun can accelerate the development of cataracts and other eye conditions. Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays and a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors.

5. Manage Chronic Health Conditions

Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol can affect your eyes. Keep these conditions under control with the help of your healthcare provider to reduce the risk of eye complications.

6. Quit Smoking

Smoking increases the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and other eye diseases. Quitting smoking can significantly improve your eye health and overall well-being.

7. Use Good Lighting

As we age, we need more light to see clearly. Ensure your home is well-lit, especially in areas where you read or perform tasks that require fine vision. Use adjustable lamps and task lighting to reduce eye strain.

8. Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is essential for maintaining the moisture balance in your eyes. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your eyes well-lubricated and reduce the risk of dry eyes.

9. Wear Protective Eyewear

Protect your eyes from injury by wearing appropriate protective eyewear during activities that pose a risk, such as sports, gardening, or working with tools.

10. Take Breaks from Screens

Extended screen time can cause digital eye strain. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away to relax your eyes.

11. Use Reading Glasses

As you age, you may develop presbyopia, making it difficult to focus on close objects. Reading glasses can help you see clearly and comfortably when reading or doing close work.

12. Monitor for Vision Changes

Be aware of any changes in your vision, such as blurriness, difficulty seeing at night, or loss of peripheral vision. Report any changes to Dr. Meyers promptly for evaluation and treatment.

By following these tips, you can maintain good eye health and manage age-related vision changes effectively. For personalized care and a comprehensive eye exam, contact Dr. John Meyers’ office today.

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