There are so many different factors that can affect your elderly family member's ability to see well. Decisions that she made years ago can be felt now. But that doesn't mean that there's nothing you can do to protect the vision that she has left.
Schedule Regular Eye Exams
Regular eye exams are usually considered an annual event, but your aging family member's eye doctor may recommend a different time table depending on her family and medical history. No matter how often her eye doctor recommends a visit, ensure that your senior sticks with that plan. Remember that some exams may require tests such as pupil dilation, so if you can't drive her to the appointment then it's a good idea to make sure that home care providers or other family members can do the driving.
Know What to Look for in Terms of Problems
Talk to your elderly family member's eye doctor about what she should be aware of in terms of any eye conditions she has. Knowing what to look for in terms of worsening symptoms or other problems can keep her from losing her vision. Some eye disease, such as
glaucoma, don't really have many signs or symptoms until the condition is more advanced.
Check Her Diet and Lifestyle
What your elderly family member eats and drinks definitely can affect whether she is going to experience eye issues later. This is especially true if she has any other health conditions that could affect her eye health. Issues such as
diabetes or
high blood pressure involve other systems in her body, but when those are out of control, her vision can be affected. Getting the right amount of exercise can also help, so be sure to talk with her primary care physician, too.
Encourage Her to Use Eye Protection Whenever Possible
Sunglasses and other types of eye protection can do so much to protect your senior's vision. Make sure that no matter what she's doing, she's got the right protective gear. Sunglasses should protect against broad spectrums of the sun's rays in order to give your aging family member the best chance at preserving her vision.
When you or your elderly family member notice problems with her vision, make sure that you talk to her eye doctor about it right away. It might be nothing, but it could also be something that needs to be addressed sooner rather than later.
If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in Holladay, UT, contact the caring staff at Interim Healthcare. Call today 801-401-3515.
Author: Michael and Marlena Hawkins, Owners, Interim HealthCare, Salt Lake City, UT
Interim HealthCare of Salt Lake City has been in business since February 2014, providing in-home personal care and support services that help our elderly and/or disabled neighbors live enriched, safe and independent lives. Our goal is to provide customized care and support services that make it possible for our clients to remain in the comfort of their own homes rather than relocate to an assisted living facility. Interim HealthCare is family owned by Michael and Marlana Hawkins, and is a Veteran Owned Small Business.
