Nearly 4.2 million people in American have an eyesight condition called low vision. In 10 years, that number will almost double with the largest demographic group being older adults over the age of 50. Low vision is when the eyeglasses or contact lenses that are prescribed for the eyes no longer can correct the vision. Medications and eye surgeries will also not help. As an individual gets older, so do the eyes and they tend to weaken. Your senior loved one may experience several signs and symptoms of this condition as early as age 40. At least one out of every four older adults lives with this condition. Home care McKinney & Allen discusses some of the common vision problems in seniors;
Some of the Causes of Low Vision
Low vision could be the result of several medical conditions as well as aging. Macular Degeneration is one of the most prominent causes of low vision. This happens when the macula in the retina deteriorates and affects the central vision. Diabetic retinopathy is another cause of low vision. This is when the blood vessels in the back of the eye are damaged from complications of the disease. Glaucoma is when the optic nerve is damaged from the increase of pressure from the fluid that is blocked in the eye. Cataracts cause low vision because of the cloudiness in a section of the eye that causes fuzzy vision.
Warning Signs and Symptoms of Low Vision
Many older adults may experience diminishing light, or things may appear darker than usual. Your senior loved one may have difficulty identifying certain colors correctly, or may not be able to read traffic or street signs as they once did. They may find it harder to do close up work like reading, sewing, fixing things around the house, or turning dials. Going up and down the stairs will become a chore for them. They will find themselves holding on to rails more, or using the feet for judgment. Some older adults find that picking up objects without over or under reaching, walking on uneven surfaces, and pouring liquid without spilling it very challenging.
Helping The Senior With Low Vision
Although there may not be surgeries or eyewear that can help older adults with low vision, innovative technologies are greatly advancing. The use of screens and handheld magnifiers, and telescopic eyewear can be very beneficial. The most important thing that family members and Homecare McKinney & Allen givers can do for their senior loved one is to ensure that they maintain their regular eye exams. Another way of helping is to add non-glare lighting in the home and ask the pharmacy to use large print on medication labels.
Having low vision can be frightening for your senior loved one because they cannot see things as clearly as they would like. It causes the feeling of constantly falling due to motion and being unbalanced. Always seek the advice of a medical professional to determine the best option for your loved one with low vision so that they can remain active and vibrant.
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Home Care Assistance of McKinney & Allen
906 W McDermott Dr #128, Allen, TX 75013, United States
972-548-0392
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