Aging does not necessarily lead to vision impairment or irreparably poor eyesight. That being said, it’s still very important to maintain a lifestyle that helps to delay or prevent common eye problems as our bodies get older. Healthy eyesight in the elderly is vital; among other things, a clear field of vision can help to stop accidents such as tripping over objects or bumping into things.
CareMalta, a leading provider of retirement homes in Malta, have put together a quick guide on how to look after the windows to your soul.
1. Diet Tips
Make sure that include food that’s high in zinc content – this mineral is key to having a healthy pair of eyes. Whole grains and beans are rich in zinc, along with lean red meat and seafood such as oysters, lobster and crab. Include a substantial intake of Vitamin C with fruits and vegetables, and Vitamin E with nuts like pecans and almonds. Fish, eggs, oranges, tangerines and broccoli also contain essential fatty acids and antioxidants vital for good eye health.
2. Quit Smoking
Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) tends to be far more common in smokers, due to vascular constriction, changes in cellular structure and oxidative stress. ARMD causes a degeneration in a tiny part within the inside of the eye called the macula. This creates problems with straight-ahead and central vision, which may become distorted or disappear completely.
3. Protect Yourself Against Harmful UV Rays
Wear a good pair of sunglasses that prevent exposure to UV-A and UV-B wavelengths, which can greatly increase the risk of developing ARMD. Invest in a proper set, as cheap or poorly designed sunglasses can allow about 20% of sunlight to “leak” through.
4. Make General Lifestyle Changes
Remember to schedule frequent eye appointments with an ophthalmologist for routine eye exams. Along with checking for common eye problems (cataracts, glaucoma, presbyopia and so on) the doctor will let you know whether your prescription needs to be updated as years go by. To avoid putting too much strain on your eyes, take a break every 30 minutes when reading to alleviate eye fatigue. Don’t spend too much time looking at brightly lit electronic screens, especially if you have cataracts as it can be very uncomfortable. Studies have also shown that regular exercise and water intake contribute to stronger and healthier eyes. Finally, checking blood pressure on a regular basis is a good idea – eye blood vessels can be damaged if it is too high.
If you have a loved one who is suffering from eye problems and are on the lookout for a retirement home in Malta providing expert care, contact us at CareMalta for more information on how we can help. We offer a service that is professional and that caters to all kinds of care for the elderly in Malta.
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