September is Ocular Healthy Aging Month, a time to raise awareness about preserving vision and eye health as we age. Our eyes, like the rest of our body, undergo changes over time. While some changes are normal, others can signal serious eye diseases that threaten sight. The good news? With proper care and early detection, many vision problems can be prevented or slowed, allowing you to enjoy clear vision well into your golden years.
As we grow older, the structures in our eyes change, affecting how we see:
Presbyopia: Difficulty focusing on close objects, usually starting in the 40s
Dry eyes: Reduced tear production leading to discomfort or blurred vision
Decreased pupil size: Eyes may struggle to adjust to low light
Changes in color perception: Colors may appear less vibrant
While these changes are often a natural part of aging, they can be compounded by eye diseases such as:
Cataracts (clouding of the eye’s lens)
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
Glaucoma (damage to the optic nerve)
Diabetic retinopathy
Schedule an eye exam immediately if you notice:
Blurred or distorted vision
Difficulty seeing at night
Increased light sensitivity
Flashes of light or new floaters
Loss of peripheral or central vision
Prompt evaluation can mean the difference between preserving and losing vision.
You can protect your eyes and maintain independence with these healthy habits:
Get regular comprehensive eye exams – yearly exams help detect problems before symptoms appear.
Eat for your eyes – include leafy greens, fish rich in omega-3s, and colorful fruits in your diet.
Protect from UV rays – wear sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB protection.
Manage chronic conditions – control blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol.
Quit smoking – smoking accelerates many age-related eye diseases.
Stay active – exercise supports healthy circulation, including to your eyes.
Many age-related eye diseases have no early symptoms. That’s why comprehensive dilated eye exams are so important—they allow eye care professionals to examine the retina, optic nerve, and other structures for subtle signs of disease before vision is affected.
Ocular Healthy Aging Month is a reminder that our vision deserves the same care and attention as the rest of our health. By staying proactive with regular exams, healthy lifestyle choices, and prompt treatment of problems, you can keep your eyes healthy and enjoy the beauty of the world for years to come.
