National Eye Exam Month – Caring for Senior Vision and Eye Health
- Marie D.
- Aug 4
- 3 min read
August is National Eye Exam Month, a timely reminder that our eyes deserve as much care as the rest of our bodies—especially as we age. Vision plays a major role in seniors’ quality of life, from maintaining independence and mobility to recognizing loved ones and reading medication labels.
We understand how vital it is to support healthy aging through proactive care. In this blog, we’ll explore why regular eye exams are essential for seniors, common age-related eye conditions, and how caregivers and families can help protect their loved ones’ vision.
Why Eye Exams Matter for Older Adults
Vision tends to change gradually over time, and many seniors may not notice the early signs of eye disease. Routine eye exams not only detect changes in vision, but also help catch serious conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy early—before permanent damage occurs.
Good vision is also strongly tied to fall prevention, mental health, and independence, making eye care a priority in any senior wellness plan.
Common Vision Problems in Seniors
Cataracts
Clouding of the eye’s lens.
Affects nearly 50% of adults aged 75+.
Treatable with surgery.
Glaucoma
Damages the optic nerve due to increased eye pressure.
Often symptomless until vision loss occurs.
Can be managed with early diagnosis and treatment.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Affects central vision, making it hard to read or recognize faces.
Leading cause of blindness in people over 60.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Complication of diabetes that damages blood vessels in the retina.
Risk increases with age and poor blood sugar control.
Dry Eye Syndrome
Common with age or medication use.
Can cause burning, redness, and blurry vision.
Who Is Most Affected?
Age group: Seniors 60 years and older are at highest risk for most vision disorders.
Gender: Women are slightly more affected due to longer life expectancy.
Medical history: Those with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of eye disease face greater risk.
Lifestyle: Smoking, poor nutrition, and lack of eye protection increase susceptibility to vision issues.
Key Statistics (American Academy of Ophthalmology & CDC, 2024)
12 million Americans aged 40+ have vision impairment or blindness.
1 in 3 adults over the age of 65 experiences some form of eye disease.
Falls are twice as likely in seniors with visual impairment.
Only half of seniors who are at risk for serious eye disease visit an eye care professional annually.
How to Protect Senior Vision
✅ Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam
Adults 65 and older should have a dilated eye exam every 1–2 years.
Eye exams can detect other health issues too, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
✅ Wear Proper Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses
Ensure prescriptions are current.
Clean lenses regularly to avoid eye infections or visual strain.
✅ Eat for Eye Health
Diets rich in omega-3s, vitamins A, C, and E, and lutein can help protect eyesight.
Foods like leafy greens, carrots, eggs, and fish are beneficial.
✅ Manage Chronic Conditions
Keep blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels in check.
Follow treatment plans for diabetes or hypertension.
✅ Protect Eyes from UV Rays
Wear sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB protection when outdoors.
Avoid direct sunlight during peak hours.
Helpful Resources
American Academy of Ophthalmology – www.aao.org
National Eye Institute (NEI) – www.nei.nih.gov
CDC Vision Health Initiative – www.cdc.gov/visionhealth
At Guided Care, we help ensure that our clients never miss their important appointments—including eye exams—and that they have the support they need to manage vision-related challenges with dignity and confidence.
Clear vision means a clearer path to independence and safety for seniors. This August, let’s raise awareness and take action during National Eye Exam Month to prioritize the vision and eye health of our aging loved ones.
Your sight is worth saving—schedule that eye exam today.
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