The importance of good vision is plain to see. As we age, maintaining healthy vision is not entirely within our own control but there are steps we can take to ensure the best vision for ourselves for as long as possible.

With more and more research connecting poor vision with dementia in seniors, the impetus is on all of us to take our vision seriously. This May, in recognition of Healthy Vision Month, here are five tips to help aging adults keep their healthy vision:

1. Regular Eye Exams for Seniors: Essential for Early Detection 

Stating the obvious? We don’t think so. Many people, even into their later years, do not keep up with their regular eye exams. These are crucial for the early detection and treatment of eye conditions in elderly, including vision issues and other eye diseases. Just because you don’t notice any discernible difference in your vision does not mean that you’re not experiencing vision problems. Many eye conditions, such as glaucoma and macular degeneration, progress gradually. Contact your eye doctor today.

2. Nutritional Tips to Support Aging Eyes 

You may have been told that carrots are good for your vision; well it’s not just rabbit food that can keep your vision healthy for years to come. Following senior eye care tips, a healthy diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins C and E, zinc, and lutein can help reduce the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Consider adding foods such as salmon, nuts, and citrus fruits to your diet.

3.  Safeguarding Senior Eyes from UV Damage 

You don’t have to look directly into the sun to cause eye damage. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can increase your risk for developing cataracts and other eye problems in seniors. Consider wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays when you’re outdoors. If possible, find sunglasses that have wraparound frames or wear a wide-brimmed hat for extra protection.

 4. Managing Chronic Conditions to Preserve Elderly Vision 

Chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes can have a lasting impact on your eyesight. Additionally, high blood sugar and high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to further vision problems. Managing these chronic conditions through any means—whether it be medication, diet, and/or exercise—is crucial for vision care for seniors.

5. Practical Eye Care Habits for Seniors 

There are small changes that you can make to your daily life that’ll help you maintain your healthy vision. These include following the 20-20-20 rule when straining your eyes at a computer or while reading: every 20 minutes, you should look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Other small changes include: making sure that your home is well-lit, using eye drops if your eyes get dry frequently and ensuring that you’re getting enough sleep at night. 

By incorporating these five tips into your daily routine, you can help maintain your healthy vision as you age. Regular eye care, a nutritious diet and healthy lifestyle choices are key to seeing well for years to come.

For more information, contact your eye doctor or visit the National Eye Institute’s website.