Healthy Eye Care for Seniors

Changes to vision and concerns about eye health can happen rapidly for older adults. Seniors should get a vision test once a year and should always follow a doctor’s recommendations on treatment plans and vision health.

Here are eight strategies for seniors to maintain eye health:

1. Diet - Eating delicious food is one of the most enjoyable ways seniors can maintain eye health. And, there are a variety of options that provide vitamins and nutrients that help with eye health – kale, carrots, eggs, sweet potatoes, oranges, almonds, and salmon are great sources.
2. Exercise - A physician-recommended exercise plan can not only help with overall health but has benefits for the eyes too. Increased blood circulation can remove toxins and increase oxygen levels in the eyes.
3. Avoid eye trauma – Injuries can have a huge impact on long-term eye and vision health and taking precautions can prevent accidental eye trauma. Remembering to wear protective eyewear or goggles when appropriate, using chemicals and sharp objects with caution, and eliminating trip hazards are some of the ways that accidents can be avoided.
4. Smart computer use – Regular computer use can lead to eye strain and discomfort at any age. However, computer screens can be more harmful to our eyes as we age and can cause headaches, eye irritation, or vision issues like blurriness or seeing double. Seniors that use a computer regularly, particularly those who are in front of a computer for long periods of time, should make sure that their desk has good lighting, take regular breaks, and always use corrective eyewear.
5. Consider other health issues – Older adults can have health issues that affect their vision health, and it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional about how physical conditions and medications can have an impact on the eyes.
6. Sunglasses – Protective eyewear becomes more important as we age, and it’s important for seniors to build the habit of always wearing sunglasses when they are outside.
7. Sleep – Sleep has beneficial properties for overall health, wellbeing, and quality of life. It’s no surprise that getting a good night’s rest is important for eye health too!
8. Vision screenings – Changes to vision and eye health can happen rapidly for older adults. Seniors should get a vision test done once a year and should always follow a doctor’s recommendations on treatment plans and health.

Recipes

Here are some great vision-friendly meal ideas for you to try.  

• Roasted Salmon With Melon Salsa
• Blueberry Spinach Breakfast Smoothie
• Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
• Carrot Ginger Soup

Be sure to protect your beautiful peepers!  

References

ClearCare. “3 Easy Tips for Seniors to Maintain Healthy Eyes & Improve Vision.” Web. 2016.

American Academy of Ophthalmology. “Tips for Eye Health in Adults Over 60.” Web. 2014.

All About Vision. “Boost your diet to protect aging eyes.” Web. 2019.

Bausch + Lomb. “60+ Eye Health.” Web.