Common Vision Issues for the Elderly
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Posted On :
Jun-30-2010
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Article Word Count :
838
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Many older people, even 80-year-olds, do not have vision problems. However, aging can lead to vision problems for some people.
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Many older people, even 80-year-olds, do not have vision problems. However, aging can lead to vision problems for some people. As people get older, they need brighter lights for everyday tasks like cooking and reading. Driving a vehicle at night can also become difficult for some senior citizens. Here are some common vision issues for the elderly.
Cataracts
Cataracts means that the lens of the eyes are cloudy and the amount of light that passes through the lens is reduced. This conditions causes vision problems, and it can be treated with an outpatient procedure. The procedure involves removing the lens and replacing it with a clear lens implant. If you have cataracts, you will notice a dramatic improvement with your vision if you have this procedure done.
Glaucoma
Chronic glaucoma is a serious disease that causes people to slowly lose their vision because fluid causes pressure to build up in the eyes. The pressure of this condition can lead to blindness. People who have this condition can treat the problem by applying medicine eye drops to their eyes for the rest of their life.
However, surgery is sometimes used to treat this condition. The goal is to prevent further vision loss because once a person's vision is lost due to glaucoma, it can't be restored. Acute glaucoma is not common, but it can be treated. This eye condition causes pressure to rise suddenly, and it is accompanied by pain, redness, headache, vomiting, nausea, and blurring of vision. If someone has acute glaucoma, they need to see an eye doctor immediately because it is an emergency.
Floaters
Floaters cause people to see specks or tiny spots that float over the eyes, especially when they are surrounded by bright lights. Floaters are usually harmless and normal, but they can also be sign of an eye problem. If they are becoming more noticeable or causing you to see flashes of light, you should see a doctor.
Presbyopia
Presbyopia is a loss of the ability to see small print or close objects. This is a normal part of the aging process, and you may not experience this condition until you reach your 40's. This condition can also cause people to get headaches and tired eyes while reading. If you are experiencing presbyopia, you should purchase reading glasses.
Age-related Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration can ruin sharp vision that is needed to see things clearly and do everyday tasks like reading and driving. Keep in mind that the macula is the part of the eyes that allows people to see objects. Age-related macular degeneration is sometimes treated with lasers.
Retinal Disorders
Retinal disorders can lead to many different degrees of blindness. Diseases like diabetes can cause retinal disorders. Sometimes, the retina becomes detached and it seriously affects an individual's eyesight. If retinal detachment is detected early, it can be successfully treated.
It is important to note that you should visit an eye doctor every year and get regular check-ups. You can prevent serious conditions of the eyes by visiting an eye doctor regularly. Keep in mind that many eye clinics offer home visits. If you have a vision problem, your doctor will tell you what your treatment options are. Some eye problems can be corrected with prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses.
It is also important to note that some medicines can affect a person's vision. The most common problems that have been reported are irritated and dry eyes. Overdosing on certain medications can also cause hallucinations. Please note that some prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal medicines cause vision problems. If you think a medicine is affecting your eyesight, consult with your doctor and stop taking it if you can.
If you are a senior citizen, you should also make your house brighter. Make sure your stairways and reading rooms are well-lit. You should also keep your stuff off the floor and organize your home, so that you do not trip and fall. If you wear eyeglasses or contact lenses, put them on first thing in the morning.
If you have intense pain in the eyes, you must call a doctor. This could be a symptom of a serious problem. If you are having trouble seeing things, you should also visit a doctor. An optometrist or ophthalmologist can treat your eye condition and give you a prescription for eye medicine, contact lenses, or eyeglasses.
If you have trouble seeing at night, you should not drive when it is dark out.
However, if you have any kind of vision problem, you should consult with your doctor before you drive. You should not be driving unless your doctor tells you it is ok to do so.
Lastly, if you have vision problems, there are plenty of solutions at your disposal. You can use low vision aids such as large calculators, computers that speak, and magnifying glasses. Large-print magazines, newspapers, and books are available at libraries.
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Article Source :
http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Common Vision Issues for the Elderly_23880.aspx
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Author Resource :
Jon Davidson is a freelance writer who writes about health, eye care and specific products and where to purchase them such as contact lenses online.
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Keywords :
contact lenses online,
Category :
Health and Fitness
:
Health and Fitness
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