Caring for the eyes should be a lifelong commitment, but it is particularly crucial for older patients. Severe eye conditions that commonly affect people in their 50s, 60s and beyond can be prevented or delayed through key lifestyle habits. Dr. Belmont of Belmont Eye Center encourages her patients to adopt these lifestyle measures to maintain eye health into advanced age.
PROTECT EYES FROM THE SUN
Basic forms of sun protection are the first line of defense against certain eye diseases. It is important to wear sunglasses with 100 percent UV (ultraviolet ray) protection. Ideally the glasses should wrap around the sides of the face to prevent the sun from inflicting damage at an angle. Hats should also be worn in the sun to provide an additional shield against the sun and to protect the eyelids, which can often be the site of melanomas created by sun exposure.
NUTRITION AND DAILY HABITS
Lifestyle, including sleep habits and diet, plays a key role in maintaining eye health as well. There are a number of factors and habits that can benefit aging eyes; Dr. Belmont encourages her patients to do the following:
- Eat fruits and vegetables that contain lutein and zeaxanthin, compounds that can lessen the risk of forming cataracts and macular degeneration; lutein and zeaxanthin are found in yellow and orange vegetables like corn, carrots, squash and citrus
- Take a daily multivitamin containing vitamins A,C,E and zinc
- Get a good night’s sleep
- Read with good light to reduce eye strain and headaches
- Avoid smoking
Since many eye ailments develop painlessly, regular check-ups are important. Other parts of the body can affect the eyes, and people with diabetes and hypertension are potentially at an increased risk for eye problems. Certain prescription medications can also play a part in negative effects on eye health.
TIPS FOR COPING WITH AGING EYES
The wear and tear of aging can cause parts of the eye to deteriorate. With age, the pupils become smaller, corneas become less sensitive and prone to glare, eyelids can droop and peripheral vision starts to decline. Practical measures can alleviate some of these problems. Suggested measures include:
- Use extra lighting
- Choose “high color” fluorescent bulbs with a color-rendering index of at least 80
- Wear glasses with an anti-reflective coating
- Get an eye exam at least once a year
- Get sufficient exercise
Dr. Sandra Belmont of the Belmont Eye Center is delighted to consult with you about your eye care requirements. Please schedule a consultation if you have any concerns at (212) 486-2020.
