How to Help Seniors Prevent and Manage Glaucoma
Prince George Senior Health | August 15, 2023
Are you aware that glaucoma poses a serious risk to seniors? Studies have shown that catching it early and receiving prompt treatment before significant vision loss occurs is the best defence against this sneaky disease. This means we all need to be vigilant about our eye health!
One of the most crucial steps in preventing glaucoma from wreaking havoc on your eyes is regular eye examinations through dilated pupils by a trusted eye care professional. If you’re over 40 years old, have an exam every two to four years. But hold on! Once you hit 55, it’s essential to step up your game and make it an annual check-up. Remember, early detection is key!
Glaucoma doesn’t discriminate, and for those over the age of 50 with a family history of the disease, annual eye exams are a must. You owe it to yourself and your loved ones to stay proactive in preserving your precious eyesight. Don’t let glaucoma catch you off guard!
Most Common Types of Glaucoma in Seniors
- Open-angle Glaucoma: The most common type of glaucoma, affecting nearly 3 million Americans, this form results in a slow, painless loss of peripheral vision. It happens when the eye’s drainage canals become clogged over time.
- Low-Tension or Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Optic nerve damage and narrowed side vision can occur in people with normal eye pressure. Lowering eye pressure by at least 30 percent through medicines slows this form of disease in some, however, it may worsen in others despite low pressures.
- Angle-Closure Glaucoma: In this type of glaucoma, the fluid at the front of the eye cannot reach the angle and leave the eye, and the angle gets blocked by part of the iris. This results in a sudden increase in eye pressure. Symptoms include severe pain and nausea, redness of the eye, and blurred vision. If you have these symptoms, you need to seek medical emergency treatment immediately.
Watch 5 Ways to Maintain Senior Vision & Eye Health
Remember, when it comes to glaucoma, prevention and early intervention are key. At Comfort Keepers – Prince George, our caregivers can help make vision health a priority by providing transportation to important appointments, preparing nutritious meals, and encouraging clients to take their medications.
Contact our office today to discuss the comprehensive in-home care services we offer and join us in the fight against glaucoma! Together, we can make a difference.
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