60 Years Old and Up: How Often Should You Check Your Eyes

If you're over 60 years of age and have relatively good vision, you might not find it necessary to see an eye doctor regularly. But as you age, your eyes become vulnerable to a number of things, including glaucoma and macular degeneration. Sometimes, the natural aging process can cause some issues with your eyes. Here's why you should see an eye doctor and what you can do to protect your aging eyes.

How Often Should You See an Eye Doctor?

Sources recommend that people over 60 years of age see their eye doctors every year for a comprehensive eye exam. Because they may be at risk for glaucoma, individuals of African American descent may need to visit an optometrist as early as 40 years of age. The exam allows an optometrist to view the tissues inside your eyes by dilating your pupils.

Glaucoma, macular degeneration, and other eye diseases don't always reveal themselves to you. The conditions can occur over time and affect the tissues located inside or at the back of the eye. By the time you realize that you have glaucoma or another type of eye disease, it may be already too late to stop it. 

It's important that you seek an eye specialist as soon as you can. Until you schedule an appointment, take steps to make your vision healthier.

How Can You Make Your Vision Healthier?

One of the most important things you can do right not is monitor your vision. You can do so by using interactive apps. The apps work with different mobile devices to make using them easier on you. Some applications even allow you to self-examine your eyes through vision tests.

If you have problems finding the right apps for your needs, consult with an eye doctor. An eye specialist may offer interactive tools on their websites to help you manage your vision.

In addition, be sure to eat fruits and vegetables that benefit your vision. Foods like carrots, tomatoes, salmon, and strawberries contain various nutrients like carotene to protect and prevent eye diseases. Keep your eyes moist by avoiding things that dry or irritate them, such as dusty bookcases and dirty air conditioning systems. 

Finally, monitor your usage of computer screens. The glaring light of monitors and other digital devices can strain your eyes and cause a problem called computer vision syndrome. Take frequent breaks to alleviate strain on your eyes. It's a good idea that you place tints or shields over the screens of your computer, laptop, and mobile device to keep your vision healthy, even when you use the apps above to examine your eyes.

You can learn more about keeping your vision healthy after 60 by talking to your eye doctor.


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