 | Difficulty reading. Letters appear blurred or seem to be missing. |
| Being unable to see the TV clearly. Sitting closer and closer to the TV. |
| Bright lights cause a glare. |
| Missing steps or tripping over curbing. |
| Loss of side vision. |
| Difficulty matching clothing and differentiating colors. |
| Difficulty seeing at night. |
| Difficulty recognizing friend's faces. |
These are all immediate reasons to get a complete eye exam. Vision and eye care professionals recommend that all people should get their eyes examined at least every 2 years, and more frequently if they experience any of the above signs, or sudden onset of symptoms such as pain, halos, or floaters.
COMMON EYE DISEASES AFFECTING OLDER ADULTS
Macular Degeneration
Age related macular degeneration develops as part of the body's aging process. It causes central vision loss and rarely results in total vision loss. Most people with macular degeneration have usable peripheral vision. Macular degeneration is the most common cause of adult legal blindness. Common signs and symptoms of macular degeneration are: difficulty reading print, seeing details, or recognizing faces; straight lines are frequently distorted and appear wavy; sometimes there is a hole or empty area in the center of vision; parts of word appear to be missing.
Treatment: Occasionally laser surgery is recommended. People with Macular Degeneration can usually be helped by the use of lo vision aids and adaptive equipment. People can continue to live independently and enjoy many of the same activities that they once did.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma develops as a result of build up of pressure in the eye that damages the optic nerve. Glaucoma may affect peripheral vision or cause tunnel vision. People who have peripheral vision loss may bump into things or miss steps or curbs. The most common form of glaucoma does not produce any symptoms or signs but can be detected easily by obtaining a complete eye examination. Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in the United States.
An acute onset of glaucoma will result in blurred vision, halo's around lights, eye pain, occasional blind spots, and problems see: in dim light or night blindness. If you have any of these symptoms it is important to get a complete eye examination.
Treatment: Glaucoma is treatable but for this to be effective, it r be detected early, and treatment must be initiated immediately. Once damage has occurred it cannot be reversed. Medications, lasers, and surgery are sometimes recommended as treatments, but glaucoma is usually controlled with eye drops. IT IS IMPORTANT TO HAVE YOUR EYES EXAMINED REGULARLY.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic Retinopathy is caused by complications of diabetes, usually in people who have had diabetes for a long time. It causes changes in the blood vessels of the retina, which may cause blurred or patchy vision. Sometimes a person's vision fluctuates daily. Frequently there are no symptoms of retinopathy except for blurred or spotty vision. There is no pain associated with this condition.
Treatment: The treatment for diabetic retinopathy varies from no treatment at all to laser surgery, depending on the persons individual needs and their doctor's recommendations
Cataracts
Cataracts are a clouding of the normally clear eye lens. They can be caused by the normal process of aging. Symptoms of cataracts include blurred or dimmed vision.
Treatment: Cataracts can be surgically removed. This is generally recommended once they have developed to a point where they are significantly interfering with a person's lifestyle.
COMMON QUESTIONS, MYTHS, AND MISCONCEPTIONS
There is much misinformation about blindness and visual impairments. Not having correct information can lead to worry, wasted time and effort, failure to seek necessary treatment, or inappropriate self treatment. The following are common questions, myths, and misconceptions and clarification. Please consult with your eye care professional if you have questions. He or she can give you specific recommendations based on your individual situation and needs.
Is it bad for my eyes to watch TV or to read? No, your eyes benefit from being used.
Is it bad for my eyes to sit close to the TV? No
Will reading in dim light hurt my eyes? No, but proper lighting does make reading easier especially for someone with low vision. Placing the light source close to the reading material will provide the greatest visibility.
People with vision problems should avoid reading small print. False, you can use your eyes without fear of wearing them out.
Will it damage my eyes to hold a book or newspaper very close to my face? Some people with visual impairments find that this helps them to read more easily and comfortably.
Taking vitamin A or eating carrots will improve vision. False, Vitamin A is necessary for sight, so it can only improve visual problems resulting from a vitamin A deficiency. This is extremely rare since Vitamin A is found in many foods, and only a small amount is needed to meet the minimum daily requirement established by the Federal government.
EYE CARE PROFESSIONALS
Ophthalmologists: Licensed physicians (medical doctors or doctors of osteopathy) trained to diagnose and treat eye disease, including surgery, prescribing medications and glasses.
Optometrists: Doctors of optometry are licensed health care professionals who specialize in prescribing glasses and contact lenses, and in recognizing and treating some eye diseases. Some optometrists provide services such as prescribing low vision aids and appliances, and training in the use of these devices.
Opticians: Trained professionals who fit and sell glasses, contact lenses, and other devices that were prescribed by ophthalmologists and optometrists.