Eye health is more important than ever as seniors age. For this reason, seniors need to make the most out of their optometrist visits by asking important and relevant questions about their eye health. Unfortunately, many seniors might not have the confidence to ask the questions they need to, or they might not be sure what to ask. Thankfully, with the support of loved ones and home care aides, they can determine the five more important topics to discuss.
Continue reading to learn what those topics might be.
What Are Common Eyesight Changes That Come With Age?
As seniors age, their eyesight changes in different ways. It is essential to know what to expect from common vision changes that come with age, like presbyopia, making it hard to focus on close objects, cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. When seniors know the answer to this question, it helps them be prepared and care for their eye health. It also gives them, and their home care aids something to look for when monitoring their vision.
Can Seniors Prevent Common Eyesight Issues?
Determining the best prevention methods is good in a lot of situations, including when it comes to eye health. Although some things can’t be changed, a few things might be stabilized or slowed down with the right choices or lifestyle changes. This means talking about things like food, exercise, protective eyewear, and getting their eyes checked regularly. Seniors can take an active role in keeping their eyes healthy if they know what steps to take to protect their eyes.
Can Medications or Certain Medical Procedures Impact Eye Health?
Some medicines or medical procedures can have side effects that impact eye health. Seniors should tell their ophthalmologist about any medicines, supplements, or treatments they are currently getting so that the doctor can assess any possible risks. It is also important to discuss any vision changes that have been noticed since the last visit and if these could cause them. The home care team can help seniors keep track of these changes so they can provide proper documentation to the eye doctor.
How Often Should Seniors Get Their Eyes Checked?
Regular eye exams are essential for finding and treating eye problems quickly. Seniors should talk to their eye doctor about how often they should get eye tests based on their needs. The suggested interval might differ depending on their current eye health and any factors that put them at risk. The ophthalmologist will give clear instructions to help seniors keep a consistent eye care routine. These appointments are critical, even if seniors haven’t noticed any changes.
What Tools Are Available For Those With Vision Issues?
If seniors have trouble seeing or can’t do daily tasks because of vision loss, they can ask about low-vision tools and support services. Ophthalmologists might suggest magnifiers, special glasses, adaptive tools, and rehabilitation programs that can improve their lives and help them regain some independence in certain tasks. They can also gain help from their home care aides in using these tools.
Remember that these questions are just a place to start, and seniors should feel free to ask more questions based on their own needs and worries. It’s vital for seniors to take steps to protect their eye health by having an open line of communication with their ophthalmologist. They can feel confident advocating for themselves with support from home care and loved ones.
Sources: https://www.takleeye.com/9-questions-for-ophthalmologist-at-eye-exam/
https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/seniors
https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2018/-older-adults-focus-vision.html