There are several standard bodily functions that may begin to wear down as some of us age, and one of the most common such examples for many seniors is a loss of vision to some degree. There are several reasons why this can happen, many related to simple realities of aging — but there are also many things seniors and their caregivers can do to help maintain strong vision even into their later years.

At Cozy Retire, we’re proud to provide numerous services as part of our Layton senior living community, including assistance with various physical issues or conditions. And because August is National Eye Exam Month, we figured this would be a great time to go over some general tips often provided to seniors and their caregivers on how to maintain solid vision during senior years. Let’s dive in!

Sun Protection

Sun exposure is one of the leading causes of vision problems, and that’s especially true as we age. harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the cornea, lens, and other parts of the eye, leading to cataracts, macular degeneration, and cancer of the eyelid — all conditions that are more likely to occur in seniors than younger generations.

Wearing sunglasses and/or a brimmed hat when outdoors is crucial for protection against the sun’s harmful rays, and it’s important to make sure those items offer full UV protection. It’s also wise to stay in the shade as much as possible when outdoors during peak sun hours (generally between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.).

Regular Eye Exams

As we get older, it becomes increasingly important to have regular eye exams — and not just when something seems “off” with our vision. That’s because many degenerative eye conditions show no symptoms at first, and by the time they do it may be too late for effective treatment. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that everyone over the age of 60 have a comprehensive eye exam at least once every two years, and more frequently if you have a family history of degenerative eye conditions.

Healthy Habits

You might be surprised at just how much impact leading a healthy lifestyle can have on your vision. Themes like eating well, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight are all important for keeping your vision sharp as you age. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables (especially leafy greens) is critical, as is limiting sugary snacks and drinks. And if you smoke, quitting now can do wonders for your vision later on — so it’s never too late to make that positive change.

Wear Your Prescription Glasses

If you’ve been prescribed eyeglasses or contact lenses, it’s important to actually use them as directed! Skipping out on wearing your glasses because you don’t like the way they look is a recipe for vision problems down the road. The same goes for not keeping up with regular contact lens cleanings and replacements.

These are just a few of the many things seniors and their caregivers can do to help maintain vision during the later years. At Cozy Retire, we’re here to help with all aspects of senior living in Layton — including vision care. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you or your loved one.