Changes are part of the normal aging process. These changes may affect your bodily structures and functions over time, including your eyes. That said, they do not have to reduce your quality of life. There are five ways to keep your eyes in great condition even in your golden years. Let your trusted eye care clinic, Park Slope Eye, discuss them in detail as we celebrate Healthy Aging Month this September.
1. Healthy Aging Eyes Start with a Well-Balanced Diet
There are many food groups that are loaded with eye-friendly nutrients to keep your vision intact for a long time. Dark leafy greens, for example, are antioxidant powerhouses which help maintain your eyes’ structural integrity. We also advise including deep-water fish in your daily diet to keep your eyes lubricated.
2. Be Aware of Your Risk Factors
Increasing age is a common risk factor for most eye conditions, like macular degeneration, dry eyes, and cataracts. It’s also important that you know your family’s history. If any of your relatives have had diabetes or glaucoma, this puts you at a higher risk of having these diseases, as well. This is why we suggest seeing your trusted eye specialist regularly, so we can immediately detect any signs of these problems.
3. Stop Sight-Threatening Habits
Smoking is not only bad for your lungs, but it also has detrimental effects on your eyesight. Cigarettes contain potent vasoconstricting substances, resulting in limited blood supply to your eye components. Without adequate oxygen and nutrient delivery, your eyes may not function as well as they should, leading to visual irregularities.
4. Have a Comprehensive Dilated Eye Exam Routinely
A solid preventive eye care plan is not complete without having comprehensive dilated eye exams regularly. These exams help in the prompt detection and management of various eye conditions, maintaining your visual health and comfort for a long time.
5. Protect Your Eyes All the Time
Ultraviolet rays have the ability to penetrate your eyes and cause retinal changes. They are also known to increase your risk of developing cataracts, macular degeneration, and more. This is why it’s essential to use sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection. We also advise using safety goggles whenever you’re playing sports or doing other visually-hazardous activities.
For more tips for achieving healthy aging eyes, fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve NY families in Brooklyn and nearby New York areas.
