How Do You Know If You Need Reading Glasses? Signs for Seniors
Did you know that, according to Smart Eye Care, the average user will start using readers between the ages of 41 and 60? Even if you feel like your vision is still perfect, there may be subtle signs of decline that you don't notice.
In Lexington, KY, quality eye care is essential for maintaining vision in your golden years. But how do you know if you need reading glasses?
In this guide, we'll dive into some key senior vision changes to look out for, signs you require readers, and how you can keep your eyes healthy, no matter your age. Let's get started.
Senior Vision Changes
Your eyes go through many stages of change during your life; however, some changes can affect seniors more severely. Here are a few of the most common eye conditions in older folks that can cause vision impairment:
- Glaucoma: Pressure builds inside the eye, which can result in vision damage or even blindness.
- Diabetic Retinopathy: High blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in the retina, causing irreversible damage.
- Presbyopia: Losing the ability to see up close, when most folks determine they need reading glasses.
- Cataracts: Clouds form over the lens of one or both of the eyes, necessitating surgery as the only form of treatment.
- Secondary Cataracts: These can form as a complication from cataract surgery, requiring a laser procedure to restore eye function.
- Macular Degeneration: Causes loss of central vision, which can lead to blurred vision and facial distortion.
How Do You Know If You Need Reading Glasses?
Do you think you may need to purchase your first pair of readers? Here are some presbyopia signs to look out for:
Blurry Vision Up Close
Since presbyopia means losing your vision up close, the most obvious symptom of vision impairment is blurry vision up close. See if you can still decipher:
- Books
- Magazines
- Digital text
If you find yourself gravitating toward large print books or increasing the font size on your digital devices, it may be time to schedule an eye appointment.
Pay attention to whether the font changes actually allow you to read, or if they simply increase your comfort. Looking at small text is unpleasant, and eye strain can be detrimental to your eye health, even if you do not suffer from vision problems.
Eye Strain
Do you notice that your eyes get itchy and sore? Are you getting tired more easily? You may be experiencing eye strain.
Some degree of eye strain is normal, especially when you spend excessive amounts of time looking at screens or reading fine print. The key sign to watch out for is how quickly symptoms develop.
If you find yourself with irritated eyes soon after engaging in a task that requires visual focus, eye strain might be the culprit.
Frequent Headaches
Developing headaches while engaging in visually intense tasks could mean you're having trouble seeing properly. Take note of how often you get headaches and see if there is any correlation between your concentration and the level of pain.
For immediate headache relief, try closing your eyes and avoiding activities that require excessive visual focus. Over-the-counter pain pills and headache caps can also lessen symptoms.
Squinting
Did you know that there is a scientific explanation for squinting? When you squint, it reduces your field of vision and the amount of light entering your eye, allowing the retina to focus better.
If you notice an increase in squinting, it may indicate underlying vision issues. Once it is obvious, you should take steps to correct your vision.
Eye Care for Older Adults
When you get your first pair of reading glasses, it does not mean you can stop caring for your eyes. There are many other steps you must take to maintain optimal eye health.
Wear Your Glasses If Needed
It's best to wear glasses if your optometrist has prescribed them. The less you wear your glasses, the more your eyes will have to work to compensate for the vision impairment.
If you find it challenging to wear glasses or are new to lenses, try to wear them in short increments. Start with a few minutes, and build up your stamina. Once you become accustomed to wearing them, you won't think about taking them off.
Eat Foods That Promote Eye Health
Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables. Many types of produce, such as leafy greens and citrus fruits, contain vital nutrients that promote better eye health.
Conversely, try to avoid foods high in sugar and fat, as these can have detrimental effects. Limit your alcohol consumption as well.
Remember, treats and sweets are perfectly fine in moderation, barring any other health problems that may restrict your diet. However, you should still aim to increase your intake of foods that are rich in nutrients.
Memory Care and Eyesight
Dementia can affect your eyesight and eye health as well. As such, it is important to maintain good eye health, even in memory care.
In Alzheimer's patients, amyloid plaques can build up and affect areas responsible for eyesight and visual processing. The way the plaques develop means that visual problems could develop before significant memory loss occurs.
Those with dementia may struggle to remember to wear their reading glasses or may frequently misplace them. Combat these problems by purchasing a few pairs of low-cost glasses to keep in common areas. Consider wearing the glasses on a string around your neck to prevent losing them.
Personal Care and Vision Support at Preston Greens
If you are asking yourself, "How do you know if you need reading glasses?" there's a good chance that you already know the answer. With this guide, you can take the proper steps to maintain your eye health during your senior years.
Receive the care you need to cope with senior vision changes at Preston Greens Senior Living. With amenities such as attentive staff, restaurant-style dining, and a library, it is easier than ever to take care of your eyes while maintaining your quality of life.
Are you ready to make the move? Contact Preston Greens today, or visit us in person at our campus in Lexington, KY. We can't wait to guide you into your next stage of life.