Right now, a lot of research is being conducted around the world to help expose the correlation between visual health and cognitive function. Most recently, a study that came out of England even concluded that “people who have had cataract surgery have better mental function in later life,” which coincides with what a lot of other research is finding. Meanwhile, other studies are being conducted to prove the contrary, linking visual impairment to weaker cognitive function in seniors and older adults. While many ocular professionals suggest that the improved cognitive function in these patients has more to do with improved social engagement, independence, and increased activity resulting from the visual correction treatments themselves, even more are keeping a close eye on all the emerging research related to how exactly fixing seniors’ vision can improve their long-term brain health and enhance their quality of life.
How To Improve Your Vision At Home & Maximize Your Cognitive Function
Although going to the eye doctor regularly, getting eye exams, and having problems addressed and corrected in a timely manner are all necessary when it comes to prolonging the vitality of your eyes, it’s important to still make an effort in between visits as well – like brushing your teeth every day instead of just waiting till your semi-annual cleaning. Some ways you can improve your vision at home include:
- Making sure you add eye-friendly foods to your diet, like highly pigmented vegetables, berries, nuts, and fish, which all contain a wide variety of nutrients and omega-3 fatty acids that can collectively improve your visual health.
- Exercising regularly to improve circulation and reduce stress, which can “have a long-term positive impact on low ocular perfusion pressure (OPP)” and lower your risk of suffering from certain degenerative conditions like glaucoma.
- Practicing healthy habits at home, like getting enough sleep, wearing your corrective lenses when necessary, making sure you have the right prescription, and more.
- Taking a break when you need it. Staring at a screen all day can really impact your vision, but taking a break and getting some fresh air, natural sunlight, and fresh views can really aid your perspective in more ways than one.
Other Ways Improving Your Vision Can Impact Your Life
It’s no secret that having better vision can dramatically improve your life, especially if you’re a senior. You’re able to take care of yourself a lot better, which means relying less on loved ones. You’re able to get out and do more, and be around the people you care about more often. You’re less at risk of suffering a painful fall or otherwise getting into a situation in which you are likely to get hurt – and so much more.
Just remember, your greatest weapon against age-related vision loss and degenerative ocular conditions is our team of incredible vision specialists at Alpine Eye Care. Whether you currently have an ocular disease that requires treatment, or you’re merely trying to protect your eyes to preserve your vision and overall health, our experts can always help you! To be sure your eyes are in optimal shape, schedule your next eye exam with one of our remarkable eye doctors at Alpine Eye Care as soon as possible by calling us directly at 1.877.733.2020 or scheduling an appointment online, today.