Sight at Home, pun definitely intended…
Published: 13/03/2019
In an ageing population, I see many patients with Age Related Eye Conditions. Some of these are completely spontaneous, while others are secondary due to other conditions the patient may already have such as Diabetes or Hypertension (high blood pressure).
In Homecare, Caregivers are often the first ones who notice signs of visual deterioration in their clients. Someone they are looking after may start to have difficulty judging distances, they may give up a hobby, such as reading or sewing, seemingly for no reason at all. Or they may have a trip or fall.
So what are the most common age-related eye conditions?
Macular Degeneration
Also known as ARMD (Age Related Macular Degeneration). This condition affects the central part of the Retina, at the back of the eye called the macula. The macula is responsible for processing light and is vital for you to be able to see, so must be healthy for you to have clear and crisp vision. As we get older, often cells in this area do not work as well as they used to, and waste material from the cells builds up on this area, literally blocking light reaching the macula.
This in turn causes visual loss, which in early stages could be noticed in day to day tasks such as reading becoming more difficult. Or having to move the head in certain positions to see the TV clearer. In advance stages this can cause complete loss of central vision.
What can be done?
Regular visits to the Optometrist can help to detect and diagnose ARMD. There is no prevention or cure of the condition. However bad diet, smoking, and exposure to UV can increase your chances of getting it.
Increasing dark leafy green intake such as Spinach and Kale, as well as fruits high in anti-oxidants such as Berries can be beneficial too. Wearing sun protection and not smoking are also good lifestyle changes to make.
Cataract
“It feels like there is a film over my vision” – This is a common first symptom of Cataracts. In the early stages people notice, loss of contrast, loss of clarity, and general blurred vision. Cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eyes, which is a structure that sits just behind your pupil. When you are born the lens is transparent and as you get older it gradually becomes cloudy like a dirty window.
If somebody is unaware they have cataracts they may be alarmed at the changes in their vision, but a diagnosis can mean in early stages it can be managed by new spectacles, better lighting and larger print. As the cataract grows and becomes very dense, it can be removed via a small surgical procedure. A synthetic lens made of a plastic polymer is inserted and vision is restored.
Retinopathy
If a patient has a systemic condition such as Diabetes, Raised blood pressure, or High cholesterol, signs can be detected at the Retina. Blood vessel leaks, or blockage of blood vessels can lead to areas of the Retina being starved of Oxygen, causing gradual or sudden vision loss.
Symptoms of loss of vision in one or both eyes, blurred vision, should be reported immediately to a healthcare professional. Any sudden loss of vision reported, should be treated/assessed immediately.
Dry eye
Dry eye is a common issue among elderly clients, where they complain of sore eyes. They may have red eye lids, or feel they struggle to see clearly and keep their eyes open.
A simple over the counter or by prescription DRY EYE DROPS can be used 3-4 times a day to soothe and relieve the symptoms, and have a significant impact of the quality of life of the patient.
Other causes of age related vision changes could be:
- Tumours – sudden loss of vision
- Glaucoma – can cause tunnel vison, pain, redness, haloes around lights
- Blepharitis – Sore uncomfortable eyes
Please contact Amy at Right at Home Cheshire East who is also a qualified Optometrist for any further questions regarding eye care for yourself, a loved one or a client who you think may have the symptoms outlined in this blog.
