How to Improve Your Eyesight as You Age: 9 Research-Backed Tips

As people reach their 40s, they often experience changes in their eyesight. These conditions may even worsen if left untreated. These changes can significantly impact their overall quality of life. From that, they can affect their sense of independence. Here are nine ways to help preserve and improve your vision as you age. 

Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams detect eye problems in their early stages. This is needed when treatment is most effective. The National Institute for Aging recommends having a dilated eye exam every one to two years. This is a must, especially for those over 60 or with risk factors. These exams test for visual acuity, depth perception, eye alignment, and eye movement.

UV Protection for Your Eyes

Prolonged exposure to UV radiation has been linked to cataracts and macular degeneration. Protecting your eyes is not only essential for your health but also a wise investment in your long-term well-being. Consider incorporating personal finance into your eye care routine by investing in quality sunglasses with UV protection, including stylish designer sunglasses. Pair them with a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors for comprehensive protection and a touch of fashion. Prioritizing preventive measures now can potentially save you from costly eye care expenses in the future.

Quit Smoking

Smoking can cause vision loss or even blindness by increasing the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Strengthen your eye health by quitting smoking.

A Balanced Diet

Consuming a diet rich in fruits, green leafy vegetables, and fish is highly recommended. You must also consider foods that are high in carotenoids, zinc, vitamins C and E, and omega-3 fatty acids. They can protect against many age-related eye diseases.

Staying Physically Active

Physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of glaucoma. Those who engaged in 150 minutes of activity per week had a 50% lower risk of glaucoma.

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Obesity has been identified as a risk factor for cataracts. Research shows a link between morbid obesity, elevated intraocular pressure, and retinopathy, all of which can contribute to an increased risk of glaucoma. Maintaining good eye health is crucial, and regular eye check-ups, along with adopting a healthy lifestyle, can play a significant role in preventing such complications. For those seeking affordable eyewear options to support their vision care journey, companies like Zenni Optical offer a wide range of high-quality and budget-friendly eyeglasses, making it easier for individuals to prioritize their eye health without breaking the bank.

Manage Diabetes Proactively

Diabetic eye diseases include diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma. You must keep blood glucose levels under control to mitigate the harmful effects.

Monitor Blood Pressure

Elevated blood pressure can damage blood vessels in the retina. This can then lead to vision loss. Maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels can help avoid further complications.

Rest Your Eyes Regularly

To reduce eye strain for individuals who spend long hours on screens, do the "20-20-20" rule: every 20 minutes, look at an object at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Throughout life, you must engage in healthy habits and be aware of your family's medical history. By taking these steps, you can help keep your eyes healthy as you age.

Understanding Age-Related Vision Changes

Various factors contribute to how well your eyes age. These may cause changes in your eyesight. Some common age-related vision changes include:

• Decreased visual acuity - less detail is noticeable in objects.
• Decreased contrast sensitivity - the eyes become less able to detect small changes in light, such as night driving.
• Diminished capacity to accommodate - the eye's ability to adjust focus from far to near objects decreases.
• Heightened sensitivity to glare - glare from headlights while driving at night or sun reflecting off windshields during the day may become more intense.