According to the American Foundation for the Blind, about 13.4 million Americans aged 65 and older have vision loss. Neglecting eyesight wellness may affect your ability to function, mobility, and enjoyment of life. Before that happens, consider applying healthy aging habits this Healthy Vision Month.
These lifestyle changes may benefit your vision, overall health, and mood. Not sure where to start? Read on for our eye care tips for seniors in Newburgh, IN.
As you age, carrying extra pounds can increase your risk of chronic illnesses, including:
You need to consume fewer calories to maintain the same weight as you grow older. Your muscle mass and strength begin deteriorating in your 40s, but decline more rapidly in your 60s. As you lose muscle, your body will use calories at a slower rate.
Aging bodies don't absorb nutrients as efficiently. It's important to choose nutrient-rich foods that support overall wellness. Unfortunately, less than half of American adults aged 71 and older meet federal guidelines for healthy eating habits.
Failing to meet these guidelines may increase your risk of a vitamin deficiency. This can increase your risk of developing an eye disease like:
AMD is the leading cause of irreversible blindness and visual impairment worldwide. According to Macular Degeneration Research, age is a prominent risk factor. The risk increases from 2% for seniors aged 50 to 59 to 30% for seniors over the age of 75.
AMD can affect your ability to:
As AMD blurs your central vision, you may notice changes to your ability to complete daily tasks. This condition can affect your independence. Eating healthy, nutritious foods may protect your eye health.
As you apply these healthy aging habits, start by adjusting your diet. Prioritize foods that feature aging and vision nutrients like:
Vitamin A (retinoid) is an essential nutrient your body can't make on its own. There are two main types: preformed vitamin A and provitamin A.
Preformed vitamin A comes from animal products and is in a form the body can digest and absorb. Provitamin A comes from plant sources. The body converts it into a usable form of vitamin A.
Vitamin A plays a role in:
Adults require between 700 and 900 mcg of vitamin A daily. A deficiency could cause eye dryness and xerophthalmia (bad night vision).
Food sources include:
Consult a nutritionist before adding these foods for eyesight wellness to your diet. They can help you discover healthy, nutritious dishes based on your unique dietary needs.
Otherwise, explore your senior living community's wellness program. You can enjoy delicious, chef-prepared meals without the hassle of meal planning and cooking yourself.
According to Scientific Reports, the concentration of vitamin C in the eyes' layer of clear fluid is 20 times higher than it is in blood plasma. An antioxidant, vitamin C, fends off damaging free radicals. It's an essential vitamin, meaning your body can't produce it.
The recommended daily intake is 75 mg for women and 90 mg for men. Food sources of vitamin C include:
Adding vitamin C to your routine may help slow the progression of AMD and reduce your risk of developing cataracts. This vitamin also plays a role in collagen production, which benefits the health and structure of the eyes' corneas and blood vessels.
Like vitamin C, vitamin E protects the body from free radical damage. It may help reduce your risk of developing cataracts. Food sources include:
According to the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2), participants who took lutein and zeaxanthin supplements had a 26% lower risk of developing AMD than others. These antioxidants act as a natural sunblock to protect your eyes. They're found in:
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids offer anti-inflammatory benefits. They may help decrease your risk of vision impairment. Food sources include:
Lifestyle factors and genetics may increase your risk of developing an eye condition. Here are a few senior eye care tips that may help improve and protect your vision.
Take a holistic approach to improving your health by:
Exercising regularly will improve blood flow. This allows essential nutrients to reach and benefit your eyes. You can explore your senior living community's activities calendar for classes.
Try to stop smoking. Smoking may increase your risk of developing AMD or cataracts.
Request personalized Newburgh health tips by visiting your eye doctor regularly. They'll recognize the early signs of cataracts and ensure you receive proper care.
Your doctor will monitor and track changes to your eyesight over time. Let them know if you have diabetes or high blood pressure. These conditions may affect your eye health.
While outside, wear glasses that offer protection from UV-A and UV-B rays. When using devices indoors, consider wearing blue light glasses. These glasses may offer protection from retinal cell damage.
This Healthy Vision Month, make changes for the better to protect your vision and overall health. With these tips, you can reduce your risk of cataracts, AMD, and other eye conditions. Maintaining your vision can help you stay independent as you age.
Remember, you can find more helpful resources through your senior living community. Look no further than Bell Oaks Place Assisted Living, where we offer individual care plans to meet each resident's unique needs.
Enjoy private floor plans, our active social calendar, exclusive wellness program, and more! Contact us now to schedule your tour.