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- Why Eye Health Is Essential to Healthy Aging
- Common Age-Related Eye Conditions
- Nutrition and Eye Health: The Role of Fruits and Vegetables
- Lifestyle Habits for Lifelong Eye Health
- What to Expect During a Comprehensive Eye Exam
- Caregivers: Don’t Overlook Eye Health
- Why Maryland Families Choose Visual Eyes Group
- Take Action This Healthy Aging Month
Why Eye Health Is Essential to Healthy Aging
If it’s been more than a year since your last eye exam, Healthy Aging Month is the perfect time to schedule one. At Visual Eyes, a comprehensive exam may include:
- Vision testing for distance and near vision.
- Eye pressure checks to screen for glaucoma.
- Retinal imaging detects early signs of macular degeneration, diabetes, or hypertension.
- A discussion of your medical history and medications.
- Personalized recommendations for glasses, contacts, or treatment.
Common Age-Related Eye Conditions
As we age, the risk of eye diseases rises significantly. In Maryland, we frequently treat older adults for:
Cataracts – Clouding of the eye’s lens that causes blurry, hazy vision. Cataracts are very common but can be corrected with safe, effective surgery.
Glaucoma – Often symptomless until vision loss occurs. Known as the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma can be detected early with routine screenings.
Macular Degeneration (AMD) – A leading cause of vision loss in older adults, affecting central vision and making tasks like reading and driving difficult.
Diabetic Retinopathy – High blood sugar can damage tiny blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision problems or blindness if untreated.
Presbyopia – The age-related decline in near vision that often begins after 40, making it harder to read without glasses.
Dry Eye Syndrome – Tear production often decreases with age, leading to discomfort, burning, and blurred vision.
Nutrition and Eye Health: The Role of Fruits and Vegetables
What you put on your plate can directly impact how well you see as you age.
Fruits for Healthy Vision
Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruit, lemons): Packed with Vitamin C to slow cataract development and protect blood vessels in the eyes.
Blueberries and strawberries: Rich in antioxidants that fight oxidative stress and lower the risk of macular degeneration.
Mangoes and papayas: High in Vitamin A to support night vision and prevent dry eyes.
Grapes and watermelon: Contain resveratrol and lycopene, which protect against retinal damage.
Kiwi: An excellent source of Vitamin C and lutein, both essential for macular health.
Vegetables for Healthy Vision
Leafy greens (spinach, kale, collards): Lutein and zeaxanthin act like internal sunglasses, filtering harmful blue light.
Carrots and sweet potatoes: Rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A.
Red and yellow bell peppers: High in Vitamin C and carotenoids that reduce the risk of AMD.
Broccoli and Brussels sprouts: Contain Vitamin C and sulforaphane, which support retinal health.
Supplements to Consider
If diet alone doesn’t meet your needs, supplements like AREDS2 (Age-Related Eye Disease Study formula) have been shown to reduce the risk of advanced macular degeneration. Always consult your eye doctor before starting supplements.
Lifestyle Habits for Lifelong Eye Health
In addition to diet, these daily habits support healthy vision as you age:
Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes of screen time, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Get daily outdoor time: Sunlight exposure helps regulate circadian rhythm and supports eye health.
Exercise regularly: Improves circulation and lowers the risk of diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma.
Quit smoking: Smoking doubles the risk of AMD and cataracts.
Control chronic conditions: Managing diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol is critical to preventing vision loss.
Protect your eyes outdoors: Wear sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB protection.
Stay hydrated: Dehydration makes dry eye symptoms worse.
What to Expect During a Comprehensive Eye Exam
If it’s been more than a year since your last eye exam, Healthy Aging Month is the perfect time to schedule one. At Visual Eyes, a comprehensive exam may include:
- Vision testing for distance and near vision.
- Eye pressure checks to screen for glaucoma.
- Retinal imaging detects early signs of macular degeneration, diabetes, or hypertension.
- A discussion of your medical history and medications.
- Personalized recommendations for glasses, contacts, or treatment.
Caregivers: Don’t Overlook Eye Health
If you’re caring for a parent or older loved one, scheduling regular eye exams should be part of their health routine. Many seniors won’t notice or mention subtle changes in vision until it’s advanced. Helping them prioritize appointments can protect their independence and quality of life.
Why Maryland Families Choose Visual Eyes Group
With six convenient locations across Maryland — Silver Spring, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Clinton, Mitchellville, and Frederick. Visual Eyes provides accessible, compassionate, and advanced care for every stage of life.
Here’s why patients trust us:
- Expert optometrists who take time to listen.
- Advanced diagnostic tools to catch problems early.
- Customized care for seniors, children, and families.
- Specialty treatments, including dry eye solutions and glaucoma management.
- A wide selection of glasses and lenses designed for comfort and clarity.
Take Action This Healthy Aging Month
Your vision is too important to take for granted. Don’t wait until you notice a problem by then, it could be too late.
Visit Visual Eyes Group at one of our six Maryland locations.
Call (301) 324-9500 or book your eye exam online today.
Healthy eyes mean a healthier life. Start your journey to better vision!