Senior Eye Health and Glaucoma

Edmonton Senior Health  |  October 13, 2023

Glaucoma: What Seniors in Edmonton Need to Know

Senior Eye Health | Glaucoma is a condition that can harm the optic nerve and lead to loss of vision. It is also responsible for being the second most common cause of blindness.

Glaucoma is a disease that causes damage to the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss. As the second leading cause of blindness, it is important to understand its effects. This condition is caused by increased fluid pressure within the eyes and can result in up to 40 percent of vision loss without noticeable symptoms. Thankfully, early intervention can safeguard your eyes against significant vision impairment.

Why Do Some Seniors Develop Glaucoma?

At the front of the eye lies the anterior chamber – a space where clear fluid flows in and out to surrounding tissues. This fluid exits the chamber at the open angle, at the junction of the cornea and iris. Here, it passes through a sponge-like mesh that serves as a drainage system for the eye. However, there are instances when this fluid may flow too sluggishly through this drain. When this happens, pressure inside the eye can increase and potentially harm the optic nerve, leading to vision loss. Therefore, maintaining optimal pressure within the eye is crucial for preserving vision.

Elevated eye pressure does not necessarily mean that a person will develop glaucoma. Individuals may have varying levels of tolerance for higher eye pressure. Undergoing a thorough dilated eye exam can assess your eye pressure against what is considered a normal eye pressure level for seniors.

The Most Common Types of Glaucoma in Seniors

Type #1: Open-angle glaucoma

The most prevalent form of glaucoma is open-angle glaucoma, which impacts approximately 3 million individuals in the United States. It gradually leads to loss of peripheral vision without causing any pain. The condition occurs when the eye’s drainage canals become obstructed over some time. This results in a tunnel-like vision, similar to looking through a paper towel tube.

Due to the lack of symptoms and warning signs, people may not notice vision deterioration for several years. However, this glaucoma typically responds positively to medication, particularly if detected and addressed early on.

Type #2: Normal-Tension Glaucoma AKA Low-Tension Glaucoma

Normal-Tension Glaucoma, also known as Low-Tension Glaucoma, can result in both optic nerve damage and narrowed peripheral vision. While medication that lowers eye pressure by 30 percent may delay the progression of this type of glaucoma in some individuals, others may experience worsening symptoms despite having low eye pressure.

When diagnosing and treating this condition, it is crucial to consider an individual’s medical history, including any potential risk factors such as low blood pressure. If no risk factors are present, the treatment options for this type of glaucoma are the same as those for open-angle glaucoma.

Type #3: Angle-Closure Glaucoma

In the case of Angle-Closure Glaucoma, the fluid in the front of the eye cannot exit due to a blockage caused by a portion of the iris. This causes a sudden rise in eye pressure. Indications of this condition include intense pain, nausea, redness, and blurred vision.

Seeking immediate emergency medical attention is crucial if you experience these symptoms. Without intervention, vision loss can occur within one or two days. Fortunately, laser surgery and medication can effectively remove the blockage and safeguard eyesight.

Rare Types: Pigmentary Glaucoma

There are also rare types of glaucoma that can affect seniors. Older individuals may also experience uncommon forms of glaucoma. One such type is pigmentary glaucoma, characterized by the flaking off of pigment from the iris which can obstruct the meshwork and impede fluid drainage over time, posing a significant risk to vision.

Rare Types: Trauma-Induced Glaucoma

Additionally, trauma-induced glaucoma may result from a severe eye injury, exposure to chemicals, or penetration of the eye.

Senior Eye Health and Glaucoma; What Can Be Done?

At this time, there is no known cure for glaucoma. However, there are options such as medication or surgery that can assist in delaying or avoiding further deterioration of vision. The most suitable course of action is determined by the specific type of glaucoma a person may be experiencing.

As time goes by, certain medications may become ineffective or clash with other prescribed drugs. It is crucial to have a physician regularly oversee both glaucoma and the intake of related medications.

Research has demonstrated that identifying and addressing the issue in its early stages, before significant impairment occurs, is the most effective method for managing this condition. It is important to undergo periodic eye examinations with dilated pupils by a qualified eye doctor.

Starting at age 40, aim for an exam every two to four years, and increase the frequency to once a year after turning 55. Individuals over 50 who have a family history of glaucoma are advised to receive comprehensive annual exams.

Comfort Keepers® in Edmonton Can Help with In-Home Elder Care!

If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with retirement care, 24-hour care, respite care, senior care, companionship care, end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, senior living transition services, and much more! 

Comfort Keepers®’ are trained caregivers who help provide senior clients with the highest quality of life possible to keep them happy and healthy at home. 

Companionship Care and Interactive Caregiving™

Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses companionship, safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs).

Moreover, our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality: empathy. Empathetic care is care that starts in the heart, and it allows us to meet our client’s exact needs. 

Home Care Edmonton

To learn more about senior care in Edmonton, contact the Comfort Keepers® office to discuss our unique service offering. If you live in Devon, Edmonton, Sherwood Park, or Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact Comfort Keepers at 780-465-4665.

Is Invoicing Modelling and Client Direct Home Care the Right Option for You?

Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing (CDHCI) Program Offered by Alberta Health Services. Read more about the program HERE.

Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is here to help you and your loved ones get the best care possible. Recently awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada, our Edmonton location has achieved the highest available certification in Canada for Home Care services, clearly demonstrating Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton.

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References:
AgingCare.com. “Glaucoma Can Steal 40% of Vision Before the Person Notices” by Marlo Sollitto. Web.2016.
A Place for Mom. “Glaucoma In Seniors: Symptoms & Care” by Jeannette Franks, PhD. Web. 2013.
Glaucoma Research Foundation.“Glaucoma Facts and Stats.” Web. 2016.

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