Age related vision milestones for adults
The aging process affects the body in a number of ways and our eyesight experiences some of the most notable changes. In fact, our eyes undergo changes in both appearance and functionality, with many adults noticing deterioration in their eyesight as they grow older. Understanding these age-related milestones can help you stay proactive about eye health and address potential concerns early on.
Common age-related vision changes
As we age, the lens of the eye and the muscles that support vision gradually weaken. These changes can lead to a variety of optical issues, which are often relatively easy to spot and can be confirmed through an eye test with an experienced optician. The most common conditions include:
- Myopia (short-sightedness): Difficulty seeing objects at a distance.
- Hyperopia (long-sightedness): Struggling to focus on nearby objects.
- Presbyopia: A loss of near vision, making tasks like reading small print more challenging.
These conditions usually require the use of corrective lenses such as glasses or contact lenses, which will help you to maintain clear vision.
Eye health concerns linked to aging
Aging doesn’t simply impact how well we are able to see; it can also affect the overall health of our eyes. Two common conditions include cataracts, which manifests itself as a clouding of the eye’s natural lens. This particular issue is often caused by environmental exposure as well as aging, so taking care to protect your eyes at all times is vital. Glaucoma, meanwhile, is a condition linked to increased pressure within the eye, potentially damaging the optic nerve and leading to vision loss.
Furthermore, the structures at the back of the eye - such as the retina and macula - are also susceptible to age-related changes. These can result in conditions such as:
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): A progressive disease that affects central vision, making it harder to see fine details.
- Diabetic Retinopathy: A complication of diabetes that can cause damage to the retina and impair vision.
Recognising the signs of age-related eye conditions
The majority of age-related eye conditions develop gradually over time, often without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. However, there are behavioural and visual signs to watch out for and which should prompt a visit to an optician. These include:
Behavioural signs
- Watery or cloudy eyes.
- Difficulty recognising faces from a distance.
- A reduction in peripheral vision.
- Squinting when focusing on close-range tasks such as reading or watching television.
- Needing brighter light for activities requiring fine detail.
Visual symptoms
- Blurry or hazy vision.
- Bright spots or halos around lights.
- Diminished brightness of colours and blurred printed text.
- Floaters (tiny specks or cobweb-like shapes that drift across your vision).
Sore, dry eyes accompanied by headaches.
If any of these signs are present, it is crucial to book an eye test with your local optometrist. Early detection is key to managing and treating eye conditions and can often prevent further deterioration.
Staying proactive about eye health
Routine eye exams are essential for detecting changes in vision and identifying potential conditions early. By understanding these age-related vision milestones and monitoring for signs of trouble, you can take the necessary steps to protect your eyesight and maintain quality of life as you age.
If you need a comprehensive eye examination, contact one of our Eye Establishment optical shops today. We provide an array of optical services from sight checks to aftercare, and have a variety of quality optician glasses and sunglasses that will suit your needs.
