Protecting Your Vision From Age-Related Changes

As we get older, many parts of our body change - and our eyes are no exception. While some vision changes are a normal part of aging, others can signal underlying eye health issues that benefit from early detection and care. With the right habits and regular eye exams, you can protect your vision and maintain clear, comfortable sight for years to come.
 

Common Age-Related Vision Changes

Understanding what may occur as you age helps you recognize when it’s time to seek professional care.

• Presbyopia: One of the most common changes, presbyopia typically begins in your 40s and affects your ability to focus on close objects. Reading glasses or multifocal lenses can help restore comfortable near vision.
• Dry Eyes: Tear production often decreases with age, leading to irritation, burning, or blurry vision. This can be worsened by medications, screen time, or certain medical conditions.
• Increased Sensitivity to Light: Aging eyes may take longer to adjust to changes in lighting and can become more sensitive to glare, especially when driving at night.
• Higher Risk of Eye Diseases: Conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration become more common with age and may not show noticeable symptoms early on.

Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Routine comprehensive eye exams are essential, even if your vision seems fine. Many age-related eye conditions develop gradually and without pain, making early detection key to preserving long-term eye health and preventing vision loss.
 

Eat for Eye Health

A balanced diet rich in leafy greens, colorful vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants plays an important role in supporting healthy vision. Proper nutrition can help maintain eye function and may reduce the risk of certain age-related eye diseases.
 

Protect Your Eyes From UV Exposure

Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays helps shield your eyes from harmful sun exposure. Long-term UV damage can contribute to cataracts and other vision problems, making proper eye protection an important daily habit.
 

Manage Screen Time

Spending long periods in front of screens can increase eye strain and dryness. Practicing the 20-20-20 rule (looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes) can help keep your eyes more comfortable throughout the day.
 

Control Overall Health

Chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure can significantly affect eye health. Managing these conditions through regular medical care and healthy lifestyle choices helps protect both your vision and your overall well-being.
 

When to See an Eye Doctor

Some vision changes should never be ignored. Schedule an eye exam promptly if you notice:

• Sudden vision loss or distortion
• Frequent headaches or eye strain
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Flashes of light or new floaters

Early care can often prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
 

Stay Ahead of Vision Changes with Total Vision Care Optometry

Aging is inevitable, but vision loss doesn’t have to be. By staying proactive, maintaining healthy habits, and keeping up with routine eye exams, you can protect your eyesight and enjoy clear vision at every stage of life.

Whether you’re noticing changes in your sight or simply want to stay ahead of age-related eye conditions, Total Vision Care Optometry is here to help. Contact our office in Fresno or Chowchilla, California, by calling (559) 435-8900 or (559) 665-3797 to book an appointment today.