Seniors and Glaucoma: What Seniors and Caregivers Should Know

Vancouver Senior Health  |  December 13, 2023

Seniors and Glaucoma: What Every Senior and Caregiver in Vancouver, BC, Needs to Know About Senior Eye Health

Seniors and Glaucoma | Glaucoma is a condition that can harm the optic nerve and cause vision loss. This condition is the second most common cause of blindness. Up to 40 percent of vision may be compromised without detection as pressure in the eyes gradually increases. Fortunately, prompt intervention can safeguard against significant vision impairment.

Seniors and Glaucoma: Why Do Some Develop Glaucoma?

At the front of the eye lies the anterior chamber, where a clear fluid circulates constantly to nourish the surrounding tissues. This fluid exits through an open angle where the cornea and iris meet, passing through a sponge-like meshwork acting as a drain before leaving the eye.

However, if the fluid accumulates, it can lead to increased pressure. This may harm the optic nerve and cause vision loss. Therefore, regulating this pressure is crucial for maintaining healthy eyesight.

Increased eye pressure does not necessarily mean that an individual will develop glaucoma. Each person’s tolerance for elevated eye pressure varies. Undergoing a thorough dilated eye exam can assist in determining the appropriate level of eye pressure for you.

Seniors and Glaucoma: The Most Common Types

#1 Open-Angle Glaucoma:

The most prevalent form of glaucoma is open-angle glaucoma, which impacts around 3 million individuals in the United States. Open-angle glaucoma is defined by the gradual, but painless decline in peripheral vision. This decline is caused by blockages in the eye’s drainage canals.

The resulting impairment resembles that of looking through a paper towel tube. Symptoms and warning signs are typically absent, and vision loss may go unnoticed for a long period. Fortunately, there is medication effective in treating this type of glaucoma, particularly when detected early and promptly addressed.

#2 Low-Tension or Normal-Tension Glaucoma:

Low-tension or normal-tension glaucoma can cause optic nerve damage and narrowed peripheral vision. This can happen even when eye pressure is within the normal range. Medications can reduce eye pressure by at least 30% for some but may not have the same effect for others.

A thorough medical history is crucial in identifying potential risk factors, including low blood pressure. In cases with no risk factors, treatment options remain similar to those for open-angle glaucoma.

#3 Angle-Closure Glaucoma:

Angle-closure glaucoma is a type of glaucoma where the fluid in the front of the eye is blocked by part of the iris. This leads to a rapid rise in eye pressure, causing symptoms such as intense pain, nausea, redness, and blurred vision.

If you experience these signs, seek emergency medical treatment right away. Left untreated, the condition can result in permanent blindness within one or two days. The blockage can typically be cleared and sight-preserved with laser surgery and medication.

There are also rare types of glaucoma that can affect seniors. In addition to the more common forms, pigmentary glaucoma involves the iris pigment flaking off which can block the meshwork and impede fluid drainage. This particular type poses a significant threat to visits throughout a lifetime.

Furthermore, glaucoma caused by trauma can occur as a result of severe eye injury, exposure to chemicals, or penetration into the eye.

Seniors and Glaucoma: What Can Be Done?

At this time, there is no known cure for glaucoma. Nevertheless, options such as medication or surgery can aid in slowing down or halting any additional vision deterioration. The course of treatment will vary depending on the specific type of glaucoma a person is dealing with.

For some, certain medications may become ineffective or have adverse effects when combined with other prescriptions. Having a physician oversee the management of glaucoma and its corresponding medications is important. It is crucial to consistently take the prescribed medication each day while undergoing treatment for glaucoma.

Research has proven that identifying and treating glaucoma in its early stages is the most effective for disease management. It is essential to undergo regular eye examinations with dilated pupils by a qualified eye specialist.

Starting at 40, it is recommended to have an exam every two to four years, increasing to annual exams after 55. Individuals over 50 with a family history of glaucoma should receive yearly exams.

The Best Senior Home Care Provider in Vancouver, BC, is Comfort Keepers®

Many families prefer Comfort Keepers® when arranging senior home care services for a loved one in or around Vancouver, British Columbia. 

If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones, we can help with 24-hour care. Comfort Keepers Vancouver also provides home care services like respite care, overnight care, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care, personal care, and more! 

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver Can Help with Companion Care and Interactive Caregiving™

Personal and empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our clients’ needs. Comfort Keeper’s philosophy is to elevate the human spirit, and our caregivers ensure your loved one experiences a better quality of life.

Trained caregivers help provide our senior clients with personal home care to help maintain the highest possible quality of life, keeping them happy and healthy at home. Our Interactive Caregiving™ delivers a system of care that addresses safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs).

Bring The Best Home Care Assistance for Seniors Right Where You Live with Comfort Keepers®

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver is proud to provide elder care in homes throughout Vancouver, keeping seniors safe in their homes. We provide home care for the seniors of Vancouver and the surrounding areas of Burnaby, Langley, Maple Ridge, and Richmond. Please call (604) 689-8609. 

Personal Care and Senior Homecare in Vancouver, BC

Learn more about our unique service, which offers personal care, companionship care, palliative care, and end-of-life care by contacting the Comfort Keepers® Vancouver office.

Accredited and Quality Respite Care Available 24/7 for British Columbia Families

Accreditation Canada has awarded Comfort Keepers® Vancouver with Exemplary Standing. This designation is only achieved after an organization’s policies, procedures, and processes undergo a thorough evaluation by industry experts to ensure they meet or exceed the stringent quality standards set by Accreditation Canada for Home Care companies.

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, Ph.D. Web. 2013.
Glaucoma Research Foundation.“Glaucoma Facts and Stats.” Web. 2016.

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