As we grow older, our eyes become vulnerable to various problems.
These range from minor inconveniences, such as needing reading glasses to see small print, to more serious age-related eye diseases that can significantly impair vision.
The gradual decline in vision due to ageing can also subtly affect our daily activities and lifestyle. However, understanding these changes, coupled with proactive measures, can help us maintain optimal vision health.
Besides minor inconveniences such as dryness, the ageing eye can also encounter serious age-related diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.
Having helped more than 30,000 people with their vision so far, Vision Scotland understands the importance of prioritising our eye health.
The clinic has been offering various eye surgery and treatments since 2013, often providing initial assessment, surgery and follow-up care within six weeks of you getting in touch – meaning issues can be treated sooner.
Plus, with Vision Scotland, you will always get all the time you need to discuss your problems and options, and get the flexibility to change appointments to when best suits you. With clinics and hospitals in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Galashiels and Stirling, accessibility is maximised and travelling is minimised.
Vision Scotland explains how you can continue to appreciate the vivid imagery of life and maintain your independence and quality of life.
Regular eye examinations
Routine comprehensive eye examinations are crucial for early detection of eye diseases. During an examination, the health of your retina, lens, and optic nerve is closely evaluated.
Nutrition and eye health
Consuming a balanced diet rich in specific nutrients can contribute to good vision. Green leafy vegetables and fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for the eyes. Consuming fruits packed with vitamins A, C, and E can also help maintain healthy vision.
Protective eyewear
The use of protective eyewear is a significant preventive measure. Quality sunglasses can shield your eyes from harmful ultraviolet and blue light rays that could cause damage over time.
Physical exercise
Staying physically active is another essential step toward maintaining healthy eyes. Regular physical exercise aids in improving circulation, which can help reduce the risk of conditions like macular degeneration and glaucoma.
Avoiding harmful habits
Eliminating smoking and moderating alcohol consumption can also significantly contribute to eye health. Habits like smoking and heavy alcohol consumption can contribute to a multitude of vision complications. These conditions include cataracts and macular degeneration.
Managing chronic diseases
Effective management of chronic diseases is an important step toward maintaining healthy eyes. For example, individuals with diabetes need to monitor their blood sugar levels. Doing so will help prevent conditions like diabetic retinopathy.
Stay hydrated
Our eyes require adequate hydration to function properly. Drinking plenty of water can help keep your eyes moist. In turn, it can reduce symptoms of dry eyes and promote overall eye health.
Get enough sleep
Sleep plays a critical role in maintaining overall health, including the health of your eyes. During sleep, your eyes are replenished and revitalised for the next day. Lack of sleep may lead to several eye issues such as eye strain, dry eyes, or blurry vision.
Limit screen time
In the digital age, we spend more time looking at screens, which can lead to digital eye strain. Take regular breaks, practice the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), and adjust your screen brightness to reduce eye strain.
Use good lighting
As we age, we need more light to see as clearly as we used to. Ensure your home has good lighting to reduce eye strain. Consider using task lighting for reading and other close-up work.
Family eye health history
Talk to your family members about their eye health history. You can inherit various eye diseases. As such, it’s important to find out whether anyone in your family has had them. This can help you determine if you are at higher risk for developing an eye disease.
Treatments
Despite helping to improve your eye health, it may be too late. Vision Scotland performs surgeries and treatments to help the following issues:
- Cataracts
- Vision correction
- Keratoconus
- Glaucoma
- Macular degeneration
- Ptosis
- Eyelid lumps and bumps
- Ectropian and entropian
- Posterior Capsule Opacification
Like any surgery, cataract surgery is an invasive procedure and is not risk-free. Always seek medical advice and give the procedure careful consideration before going ahead. It is important to note that results may vary depending on the age and health of the person.
While you can self-refer to the hospital, always consult your GP to discuss any concerns you may have.
If you believe you may need treatment for the above, visit visionscotland.com
