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5 Informative Eye Health Tips For Seniors

5 Informative Eye Health Tips For Seniors

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As seniors age, their eyes will naturally deteriorate and become less effective if they do not actively seek ways to manage and maintain their vision. Research and technology has done a great deal to improve the opportunities to retain youthful senses, especially sight. Here are five vetted tips that every senior can use to help retain and improve their eyesight.
 
Looking through the glasses at eye chart

1. Proper Eyewear

For seniors, wearing sunglasses is a great start, but they need to be the right type in order to fully protect their eyes from the elements. Sunglasses should block at least 99% of UVA and UVB rays. Wraparound sunglasses will best protect seniors’ eyes from UV ray fallout, and if they still want to drive, polarized lenses are the best option. Even if they are wearing contact lenses with sun protection, it’s always a good idea to invest in a proper pair of sunglasses for an added layer of protection.
 

2. Diet and Eye Health

Believe it or not, seniors’ diets have a great deal to do with eye health. Contrary to the old wives’ tale, carrots are not the best food to eat to improve eye health. The foods associated with eye health include leafy greens such as spinach, oily fish (that contain a healthy amount of omega-3 fatty acids), non-meat protein sources and citrus fruits like grapefruits and oranges. Eating a healthy, balanced diet will help prevent seniors from developing Type 2 diabetes, which is the number one cause of blindness in seniors.
 

3. Computers/Technology & Eyes

Seniors that use a computer screen for an extended period of time should use protective lenses that are specifically geared for computer use. Seniors should also take breaks at least once every 20 minutes, looking away from the screen during this break.
 

4. Health Habits Important To Eyes

Exercise is essential for seniors’ total body health. In addition to reducing the risk of Type 2 diabetes, exercise will also help to reduce health problems associated with blindness. The body will also be able to respond faster to infections of the eye if it does not have to spread its resources to other parts of the body. Seniors should perform at least 30 minutes of exercise on a daily basis.
 

5. Regular Eye Doctor Visits

Seniors should create a consistent schedule with an eye doctor, so any problems will be detected before they become irreversible or chronic. As seniors age, there is some natural deterioration that only a medical professional will be able to spot and treat. Seniors should also make sure to visit an eye doctor if they experience any symptoms that include blindness, flashes, floaters, eye spots or soreness.
 
Man Undergoing a Visual Field Test

Sunshine Retirement Living will ensure your senior loved one continues along the path of a happy and healthy life. We are fully committed to the wellness of our residents, and we know just how important health is to enjoy an enriched and independent life. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about the services we provide, or how we help to take care of your loved one today.

*This blog was first published here: Sunshine Retirement Living

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