As we get older it is normal that our vision changes. Our eyes may find it harder to read small print, take longer to adjust from light to dark and be more sensitive to glare from sunlight or unshielded light bulbs. There's a decline in depth perception that can make it hard to judge distances, and perceiving contrasts and colours may become more difficult.
"My overall vision has improved during the 30 day course which I've just completed. Consequently, I no longer need glasses for reading and the computer..." - Steve Cooper
Sight provides much pleasure, but it's also an important part of staying safe and independent. Because our eyes do so much for us, they deserve good care and attention.
Be kind to your eyes!
Turn on the lights. Seeing better can sometimes be as easy as changing a light bulb! Putting 100 or 150-watt bulbs in your lamps can reduce eye strain (but make sure your fixture is designed for that wattage!). Brighter lighting in stairways can help prevent falls.
Don't smoke. Studies show that tobacco smoking is an important risk factor in the early onset of an eye disease called age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This disease causes serious and permanent loss of central vision.
Reduce glare. There are many ways of reducing glare, including good lampshades, glare shields on computer monitors, and sunglasses. Wear sunglasses that provide 99 to 100% UV-A and UV-B protection when you go outside during the day. They will protect you from UV rays that can harm your eyes even on a cloudy day.
Protect yourself. Many people suffer vision loss because of accidents in the home. Here are some ways to prevent damage to your eyes:
* put a grease shield over frying foods
* make sure that spray cans and bottle nozzles are pointed away from you
* wear safety glasses in the workshop and when opening and using chemical products like ammonia
* when using bungee cords, be careful of recoil
Eat your carrots. Studies show that a daily dose of the vitamins and minerals found in melons, citrus, carrots, spinach and kale may help slow the progress of age-related eye diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma or cataracts.
Get an eye examination. Many changes to vision happen so slowly that you may not realize you have a problem. If you are over 45 years of age, the most important thing you can do to protect your vision is to have an eye exam on a regular basis. Finding problems early may make the difference between maintaining good vision and vision loss.
