Even though vision changes are a natural part of the aging process, seniors can take many different steps to preserve their eyesight. In addition to scheduling regular appointments with their eye doctors, older adults might also need to change some of their lifestyle habits if they want to keep their eyes healthy and strong. Here’s a look at five tips seniors can use to enhance their vision and reduce their risk of common age-related eye diseases.
1. Spend Time Outside
A team of researchers from Cambridge University recently discovered spending time outside is vital to eye health. Even though constantly being exposed to direct sunlight might negatively impact vision, a few minutes of ultraviolet light per day can reduce the risk of nearsightedness. These same researchers also claim focusing on objects in the distance strengthens the muscles that control the eyes.
If your loved one has limited vision, he or she may require assistance with daily tasks. Living with serious health conditions can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional home care. Reston seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more.
2. Take Breaks from Screens
According to a recent Nielsen report, the average American adult stares at screens for around 10 hours a day. While the numbers for seniors aren’t quite as high, aging adults still spend a large percentage of their time looking at smartphones, tablets, and computer screens. Focusing on a screen for long periods dries out the eyes and weakens the optical muscles. The ideal way to avoid these issues is to take breaks from screens for at least 10 or 15 minutes every hour. During these breaks, seniors should either close their eyes or focus on objects at alternating distances.
3. Eat Bright Fruits & Vegetables
Eye health starts with diet, and seniors who want to enhance their vision need to eat plenty of fresh produce. Most bright fruits and vegetables get their coloring from beta-carotene, flavonoids, and other nutrients that strengthen the eyes. Some of the best produce options for eye health are lemons, berries, carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini. When preparing these fruits and vegetables, your loved one should avoid overcooking them because it can remove the nutrients.
A professional caregiver can ensure your loved one eats healthy meals and enjoys a higher
quality of life. Elder care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
4. Wear Proper Eyeglasses
Wearing older eyeglasses or contact lenses is much more than a minor annoyance. Prescription eyeglasses are designed to boost vision while still challenging the eyes. If your loved one wears the same prescription for a long time, his or her eyesight may weaken. As a general rule, adults over the age of 65 should schedule eye exams at least once a year to see if their prescriptions have changed.
5. Boost Heart Health
The heart pumps blood and other nutrients to the eyes, and damage to the cardiovascular system could result in vision impairment. Many of the risk factors for heart disease, including smoking, high blood pressure, and diabetes, are also risk factors for macular degeneration. Your loved one needs to exercise regularly and stick to a healthy diet to protect his or her heart and eyes.
If your loved one is experiencing vision loss and has difficulty accomplishing daily tasks, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Reston elderly home care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers. Rely on the professionals at Assisting Hands Home Care to provide high-quality compassionate care for your loved one. Give us a call today at 703-556-8983 to learn about our flexible in-home care plans.
