September is Healthy Aging Month. To remind us all of the importance of caring for our vision as a vital aspect of overall health, the American Academy of Ophthalmology presents a series of monthly health observances throughout the year to highlight important issues that affect our sight at every stage of life. September has been set aside as a time to focus on helping our seniors maintain healthy vision as they age. The Academy wants you to know that one in six Americans over age 65 have vision issues that cannot be corrected with glasses.
Even though research tells us that the risk of eye disease increases with age, many seniors do not see an ophthalmologist for regular eye exams. Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness, but when detected early, they are treatable. Having a dilated eye exam at age 50 will give you a clear look at your eye health and let your doctor catch the early signs of disease. Diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma can slowly steal your vision if left undiagnosed. If you have been dealing with vision impairment, but find the thought of surgery unsettling, you should know that cataract surgery has improved dramatically with new technology and improved surgical techniques. According to the Eye Surgery Education Council, 95% of cataract surgery patients experience significant vision improvement with minimal pain. To support their vision and overall health, it is important for seniors to eat a healthy diet and get proper nutrition, which may include vitamins and supplements to address deficiencies.
Taking care of your eyes has a profoundly positive effect on other areas of health that are especially important for seniors. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that patients over the age of 65 who had undergone cataract surgery were less likely to suffer hip fractures than those who had not. With better vision comes increased ability to safely perform activities of daily living, like bathing and dressing. Encourage your aging loved ones to see an ophthalmologist and protect their precious eyesight today.
Alpine Eye Care is Northern Michigan’s leading eye care center, with the only two board-certified eye surgeons in the area on staff. We are happy to provide you and your family with expert vision care, and the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases in the comfort of our office. Call 1.877.733.2020 or schedule an appointment to learn more about our services.. Let Alpine Eye Care be your partner in better vision for every member of your family.