As we get older, it’s natural for our bodies to undergo changes. One area where these changes can be particularly noticeable is our vision. Whether it’s needing to squint to read the fine print or struggling to see clearly at night, our eyes have their own aging process. Common age-related eye problems include:
- Presbyopia: Are you suddenly having trouble seeing objects up close? You may have presbyopia, a common condition that usually starts in your 40s. It happens because the lens in your eye gets less flexible, making it harder to focus on close-up things.
- Cataracts: If your world starts to look a little foggy, cataracts might be the reason. They’re common as we age, but the good news is they’re treatable. Regular eye exams can help you keep an eye on them and decide if and when surgery is needed.
- Glaucoma: This condition can sneak up on you without symptoms, affecting your optic nerve over time. It’s a leading cause of blindness in older adults, but it can be managed effectively with regular check-ups.
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): AMD affects your central vision, which you need for things like reading and recognizing faces. It’s a leading cause of vision loss for those over 50, but regular eye exams can help catch it early so you can slow its progression.
- Diabetic retinopathy: If you have diabetes, you have a higher risk of developing diabetic retinopathy, which can lead to vision loss or even blindness. Routine eye exams are crucial for catching it early and getting the right treatment.
Why regular eye exams matter
There are plenty of reasons to keep up with eye exams at any age. For one, they help catch problems early before they become more serious. Many eye conditions don’t show symptoms right away, and an eye exam is the best (and often only) way to detect these issues. They also ensure your glasses or contact prescription is current, so you can see the world clearly.
Beyond vision, eye exams can offer insights into your overall health, revealing signs of conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. Additionally, eye care professionals can provide tips on keeping your eyes healthy, from nutrition advice to recommending the right protective eyewear and lifestyle changes.
How often should you see your eye doctor?
The recommended frequency of eye exams depends on your age, health history, and specific risk factors. Generally, if you’re over 60, it’s best to see an eye doctor every year. If you’re between 40 and 60, you should get eye exams every two years if you have no vision problems or risk factors. And if you’re under 40, eye exams every two to five years might be enough. Those with risks like diabetes or a family history of eye disease might need to go more often.
Schedule an eye exam today at Lemoncelli Eyecare and let us help you maintain clear, healthy vision. Contact us now to book your eye exam in Nashville!