4 Ways to Protect Your Elderly Loved One's Eyesight
December 10, 2015
Elderly Care in Los Gatos CA
Having good eyesight helps your loved one to feel independent and keeps her doing the things that she enjoys, whether that's crafts, reading, or getting out into nature. Along with making sure
that your loved one is eating a healthy diet full of nutrients, there are several practical steps you can take that can protect your loved one's eyesight.
Eye Exams Are Essential
Regular eye exams are absolutely essential to protect your loved one's eye health. If you're not able to take your loved one to appointments, remember that home care providers can make sure that your loved one gets to the appointment and that complete exams are performed. At least once a year your loved one's pupils should be dilated so that the eye doctor can check for all signs of eye diseases, such as glaucoma and macular degeneration.
Learn Your Family's Eye Health History
The more you know about your family's eye health history, the more prepared you and your loved one can be. Many eye diseases are hereditary, so knowing the eye illnesses that have happened before can give your loved one's eye doctor advance notice about what to look for in her eyes. If there is a history of other health problems, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, these can also drastically affect eye health.
Get Changes in Vision Checked Immediately
If your loved one experiences any changes in eye vision, such as pain in the eyes, any loss of vision, double vision, or fluid coming from her eyes, then an immediate visit to an eye doctor is in order. Any vision changes, especially those that are sudden and painful, can be an indication that there are serious conditions that need attention. The sooner your loved one can get to her eye doctor in these cases, the better.
Protect Your Loved One's Eyes When Outside
There are multiple causes of cataracts, but exposure to too much sunlight is one potential cause. When your loved one is outside, it's a good idea to have her wear sunglasses that protect against both UVA and UVB rays. A wide-brimmed hat is also a good idea, particularly if your loved one doesn't enjoy wearing sunglasses.
Keeping your loved one's eyesight intact is essential in order to help her remain healthy and independent.
If you or an aging loved one are looking for elderly care services in Los Gatos, CA, please call Familiar Surroundings Home Care. Call today!
Santa Clara County: (408) 600-2760
San Mateo County: (650) 458-0140
Santa Cruz County: (831) 325-0890
Source
http://www.webmd.com/eye-health/vision-problems-aging-adults