How Age Affects Eyes

 · Floaters: these are small particles that you can see
We’ve all seen them. The “old” peoplefloat through your line of vision (usually only in well-lit
wearing their glasses on a chain around their neck,surroundings or on a bright day outside) and can be
putting them on, taking them off, leaving them sit on theperfectly harmless. They can also be early signs of
tip of their nose so they can still squint and not be ableretinal detachment so be sure to check with your
to read the menu. And we all hope “we”doctor right away if you start seeing them.
don’t get caught doing that some day. That hope· Having too many tears: this is usually due to
isn’t necessarily out of reach, either.developing sensitivity to light, wind or changes in
Just because our bodies age, it doesn’ttemperature, but is easily managed by wearing
automatically follow that our eyesight will go, too. Manysunglasses as appropriate. If you have an eye
older people, even those in their 80’s, can still goinfection, your eyes will tear too much, too, so be sure
about their daily tasks without the need to wearto check with your doctor if you aren’t sure.
corrective lenses all the time. However, aging does· Eyelid problems: common problems include red and
mean that our eyesight will change somehow. It mightswollen eyelids, itching, tearing, light sensitivity, and
be as simple as needing more light when you’recrusting of eyelashes during sleep. This simple condition
using the stairs or reading a book. No big deal. Just flipknown as blepharitis is easily treatable, usually with a
the switch.warm compress.
Other changes can happen, too, though. It is quite likelyMost ophthalmologists recommend that you get your
that you will need to use reading glasses for menus,eyes checked at least every 1 to 2 years and wear
books and contracts. This is due to presbyopia. Yoursunglasses regularly. Both of these practices will help
eyes can’t focus properly anymore on the print ofkeep your eyes healthier.
a book or menu or on objects that are close.Even if you do have to wear glasses or contact
And, simply because the body becomes morelenses at some point, you can rest assured that it is
susceptible to ailments as we age, you may developyour choice as to whether or not you wear them on a
some other eye problems. Here are some to bechain around your neck.
aware of: