According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 12 million people aged 40 years and over have vision impairment. An estimated 93 million adults have a high risk for serious vision loss. However, only half have visited a doctor in the past 12 months.
This Healthy Vision Month, prioritize your senior vision wellness by establishing healthy eye care habits. Not sure where to start? Read on for our tips to improve your eye health while living in Bakersfield, CA!
Your risk of developing an eye disease will increase as you age, especially if you're neglecting your nutrition. Eye diseases associated with aging and eyesight include:
According to the Macular Degeneration Research program, nearly 20 million American adults are living with some form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). It's the leading cause of irreversible blindness and visual impairment.
Your diet may play a role in increasing your risk for these diseases. Nutrients that are essential for senior vision wellness include:
Before taking supplements, consult a doctor. They'll help you avoid interactions with medications you're taking. Here are a few food sources for each vitamin.
Vitamin A helps maintain photoreceptors, the eyes' light-sensing cells. A deficiency may increase your risk of night blindness and dry eyes.
Animal-derived foods contain retinol, the active form of vitamin A. These include:
You can meet up to 30% of your vitamin A requirements through provitamin A carotenoids like beta-carotene. Foods that contain it include spinach, kale, and carrots.
To improve your Bakersfield senior health, explore your living community's dining program. You can discover healthy, nutritious, chef-prepared meals created with eye health in mind!
Vitamin C is an antioxidant. It's concentrated in the clear layer of fluid in the eye (the aqueous humor). Foods that are rich in vitamin C include:
Zinc may help form the eyes' visual pigments. A deficiency may increase your risk of night blindness. Foods that are rich in zinc include:
EPA and DHA are omega-3 fatty acids. The retina is high in DHA, which helps it maintain function. A deficiency may increase your risk of vision impairment.
Food sources for omega-3s include fatty fish like salmon, herring, and sardines. Other foods high in DHA and EPA include:
Foods that are high in omega-6 fatty acids include:
Ensure a proper ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids. Consult a doctor or nutritionist before adding these foods or supplements to your routine.
Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoid antioxidants. They're concentrated in the retina's center, the macula. Both act as natural sunblock for the eyes by protecting them from harmful blue light.
Devices like your phone or tablet emit blue light. Try setting these devices aside to spend time among friends instead. You can explore your senior living community's activities calendar for engaging events.
Lutein and zeaxanthin may reduce the risk of AMD progressing to more advanced forms. Food sources include:
For enhanced senior vision wellness and overall health, try exercising for 150 minutes each week. Exercise will increase blood flow throughout the body, helping nutrients reach the eyes. Long-term exercise could enhance tissue healing.
Exercising also reduces oxidative stress, which can cause cellular damage. Oxidative stress occurs when there's an imbalance between toxins and the antioxidants that fight them.
Staying physically active will help you maintain a healthy weight. Otherwise, extra pounds can increase inflammation throughout the body. Inflammation may increase your risk of:
Damage to the optic nerve may occur, which can prevent the eyes from sending information to the brain. Obesity also increases your risk of type 2 diabetes, which can cause blindness. Explore your senior living community's wellness program for exercise classes.
Tobacco use may increase your risk for:
Try to replace smoking with other healthy habits. This can include exercising, drawing, or journaling.
A few lifestyle changes can protect your eyes from damage. Here are eye care habits you can make part of your daily routine.
Sunglasses can protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. The next time you step outside, slip on your favorite pair. Otherwise, excessive UV exposure may increase your risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.
Choose a pair that:
If you wear contacts, look for types with built-in UV protection. You can wear them with your sunglasses for an added layer of protection.
Staring at a TV, computer, or phone screen can cause:
Remember, these devices emit harmful blue light. Blue light can damage cells within your eyes. This may increase your risk of cataracts or macular degeneration.
To protect your eyes:
Take care of your Bakersfield senior eye health by scheduling routine exams. Your doctor can improve your eye health awareness for older adults by:
This Healthy Vision Month, make a change for the better. Use these tips to enhance your senior vision wellness. Remember, your Bakersfield senior living community can offer additional resources.
Look no further than Columbus Estates, where we offer Independent Living with Supportive Services. Our exclusive senior lifestyle programs, including chef-prepared meals and engaging social activities, can enhance your quality of life while balancing autonomy and assistance. Contact us now to schedule your tour.