The Silent Blinders

Cataracts, Macular Degeneration and Glaucoma along with Diabetes can rob the elderly of their sight. According to The National Eye Institute (http://tinyurl.com/3fetq3o) the prevalence of these diseases is expected to increase with the aging of the U.S. population. Often times these diseases cause a slow drawn out deterioration of the elderlys’ vision. That is why it is imperative that as we age we get routine eye examines. If we begin tobegin to see deterioration in our vision or an elderly loved one, contact your eye care professional.

Studies have proven that with the deterioration of vision comes a reduction in activity and loss of mobility. Poor eye sight increases the risk of falls and depression. Poor vision can also affect the ability of the elderly to drive and to live independently. If these diseases are caught early enough they can be managed so that quality of life is not greatly affected. The American Academy of Ophthalmology (http://www.aao.org/) recommends an eye exam every 1 to 2 years for patients aged 65 and older.

HAVE YOU HAD YOUR EYES EXAMINED RECENTLY?