Your eyes experience many changes, from the moment you are born until you become an adult. As you get older, your risk for some eye conditions increases. Glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy are some age-related vision problems.
Here’s what you can do to preserve your vision and keep your eyes healthy.
Eat Nourishing Meals
Incorporate plenty of fruits and vegetables into your meals. Studies show that enough intake of zeaxanthin and lutein might reduce your risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration. You can find these antioxidants in fruits and vegetables with orange and yellow pigments and dark leafy greens.
Schedule Regular Eye Exams
Regularly seeing your eye doctor goes a long way in protecting your vision. Experts usually recommend annual eye exams for people 40 and older. You might need to see your eye doctor more often if you have existing eye or health conditions and certain risk factors.
Keep Your Eyes Protected Outdoors
Many people underestimate the importance of wearing UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors. Ultraviolet (UV) rays are just as damaging to your eyes. Be sure to wear UV-blocking sunglasses when heading outside. It doesn’t matter what the color of the lenses is as long as they feature UV filters. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat will also give your eyes added protection.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is bad for almost all parts of your body. It could harm your lungs, heart and even your eyes. This poor habit increases the likelihood of cataracts, macular degeneration and other conditions that can threaten your vision.
Get Sufficient Rest
Lack of sleep could cause eye strain. You may become more sensitive to light and have blurred vision. When you don’t get enough sleep, you might experience eye spasms or twitches. Over time, it could increase your risk of glaucoma and other vision problems.
Six One Six Vision Center is here for your family’s eye care needs. We can examine your vision and determine if you need prescription glasses or contact lenses. Call us at (208) 514-1858, or schedule online anytime. We assist patients in communities around Boise and Eagle, ID.
