It’s always important to look ahead so you don’t bump into things. The same goes for looking after our eyes as we age. When we get over 50, our eyes begin to age as well due to cataracts, diabetes, diet, and overall health. So, we pulled together some quick insights about keeping those peepers healthy and strong as we age!
As we age, our eyes’ lenses gradually stiffen (like our muscles some days!). This can become noticeable in our 40s but accelerates into our 50s. We can notice this through changes in near-vision activities such as reading, sewing, or even using a smartphone. If you have to move objects farther away to gain focus, this is why.
Our pupils also become smaller and less responsive into our 50s. You’ll notice this if you need more light for reading or doing detailed tasks. It’s often why people over 50 tend to dislike driving after dark.
As we age, our ability to produce tears also increases, which can lead to dry eye syndrome requiring drops and impact our visual clarity. Some medications, like antidepressants, antihistamines, and blood pressure drugs, can play a role. Talk to your healthcare provider if you notice such changes when you start these medications or think they may be having an impact.
Maintaining Eye Health as We Age
So, how do you keep those lovely peepers in good shape as you age? Exercise plays a role, as it does with all aspects of our health. So do nutrition and some supplements.
Sunglasses can be beneficial as we become more sensitive to light. The best ones are wrap-around styles to get better coverage. Polarized lenses that cut down on UVA and UVB rays should also be considered.
Do you still spend a fair amount of time on a screen, whether on a smartphone, tablet, or computer? Follow the 20-20-20 rule, which states that you should look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes. You can also find computer glasses that reduce blue light from screens.
Schedule at least two eye exams a year to test for issues such as glaucoma and cataracts. You’ll be able to know sooner any issues and potentially get ahead of them.
A Mediterranean-style diet is very beneficial when it comes to diet. Try to get more omega-3, either through supplements or eating more fish. Salmon is excellent! Eat deeply coloured fruits and vegetables at least twice a day. Oh, and no, carrots are not the superfood for eyecare, we’ve been told.
If necessary, avoid exercises that put pressure on your eyes, such as those where you bend your head down. Walking, along with yoga or stretching, helps with blood circulation. Balance exercises can also play a role.
Most people experience some form of change in their eyes. High blood pressure and blood sugars are a prime cause of eye issues, so managing diet and consistent exercise are great things to do.
