Low vision results in loss of independence and overall
reduced quality of life. The graying of America brings with
it a growing population that needs treatment and support
for visual impairment. The leading cause of blindness among
white Americans is age-related macular degeneration (AMD),
while among African Americans it is cataracts and glaucoma.
With cataracts, the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, in
one or both eyes. Although many sufferers don't detect their
presence, these are some common symptoms of cataracts:
* changes in how you see color
* impaired vision at night, especially when driving
* problems with glare from bright lights or sun
* halos around lights
Glaucoma causes damage to the optic nerve, the path to
the brain for all visual information. Because its effects
are gradual, you may be unaware of vision loss until it
is most damaging. Diabetes is one of the main causes of
glaucoma. Good nutrition, exercise and weight control can
help prevent the onset and slow the progress of Type 2 Diabetes.
AMD, currently affecting over a million Americans, is a
common cause of legal blindness. The macula is the part
of the retina, a thin lining on the back of the eye, that
controls sharp central vision. Its degeneration causes loss
of central, but not peripheral, vision.
Presbyopia, commonly called farsightedness, is a condition
impacting nearly everyone over forty. It isn't sight-threatening
but makes reading and close-up work difficult. Its incidence
and severity progress with aging but is correctable with
prescription reading glasses or bifocals.
Although genetics plays a part in how our eyes age, you
can protect the vision you have in many ways.
* Have regular eye exams. If you have a family history
of eye disease, poor health, diabetes, or if you take
medication that causes side effects on your eyes, see
an eye doctor for regularly scheduled eye exams.
* Reduce eye strain. When reading use adequate lighting
(60-100 watt bulb) and take frequent breaks to change
your focus on distant objects for several minutes. When
watching TV have room lights dimmer but don't watch in
complete darkness; the contrast in light is too sharp.
When you work at your computer take frequent breaks to
look off in the distance. Blink often to keep eyes moist.
* Protect your eyes from excessive sunlight. Ultraviolet
(UV) rays are the component of sunlight most responsible
for eye damage. On bright or hazy days reflected sunlight
from water, sand, pavement, snow and glass can burn the
eye surface. The cumulative effects from repeated exposure
leads to chronic eye disease. Wear brimmed hats and sunglasses
that filter out 99-100% of UV light. Expensive glasses
don't guarantee protection: it's the UV protection written
on the label that tells you how effective the glasses
are.
* Relax your eyes through simple vision exercises. Tension
and fatigue cause poor visual habits.
The Bates Method, a series of exercises developed in the
late 1800s by Dr. William Bates, advocates regular eye relaxation
(including blinking) and careful measured exposure to sunlight
to strengthen vision (see Resources). Instructors trained
in the Bates Method offer classes in how to do the exercises.
For those who have poor vision there are scores of helpful
devices available that can make life easier: magnifiers,
large screen print enlargers, phones and TV remotes with
oversize buttons are just a few. The Vermont Association
for the Blind and Visually Handicapped is a good resource
for learning how to use and buy them.
Our precious eyes require care and ongoing protection if
we are to enjoy good vision that will keep pace with increased
longevity. Regular exams, eye protection, and optical relaxation
techniques can help to keep that twinkle in your eye.
RESOURCES
Senior Help-Line can tell you about programs and resources
in your area related to vision protection (800-642-5119).
Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired
(VABVI) offers safety and independence programs for visually
impaired (800-639-5861).
Bates Method for Better Eyesight Without Glasses, by
William Bates ($13.00).
