Older And Wiser: 3 Vision Problems Associated With Age
Posted on: 19 February 2016
If you're over 50 years old, you may have begun to notice changes to your vision. Some of those changes may be minor, such as needing additional light when reading, or seeing additional glare from headlights while you're driving. While those vision changes can be bothersome, there are some more serious changes that can affect your vision as you age. Here are three age-related vision problems you should be aware of.
Macular Degeneration
In the beginning stages of age-related macular degeneration, you might not even realize you have a problem. In some cases, you might not notice vision changes until the disease has affected both your eyes. Once you notice symptoms, you should visit your optometrist as soon as possible. Some of the symptoms you need to be aware of include:
- Straight lines that appear distorted or twisted
- Blurry or dark areas in your field of vision
- Changes in the brightness of colors
Retinal Detachment
You've probably noticed small particles floating in your field of vision from time-to-time. Those floaters are normal and are usually small particles of dust floating in the fluid on the surface of your eye. However, if you've noticed an increase in the number of floaters you experience each day, or if you also begin noticing flashes of bright lights along with the floaters, your retina may be detaching from your eye. You should have your vision examined by your optometrist as soon as possible. It's important to note that retinal detachment is not treated promptly, it can lead to permanent vision damage or even blindness.
Reduction in Your Peripheral Vision
Glaucoma, another age-related vision disease, can cause damage to your peripheral vision. You need your peripheral vision to see things that are to the side and back of you. An easy way to monitor your peripheral vision is to take this simple test.
While standing straight, touch the tip of your nose with your right index finger. Move your finger about 12" away from your face. Look straight ahead as you move your finger 12" to the side and then towards the back of your head. Stop moving your finger as soon as you can't see your finger anymore. Repeat the test with both your eyes. To keep track of vision changes, you should repeat the test once a month. If you begin to notice changes in your peripheral vision, you should schedule an appointment with your optometrist.
As you age, it's important that you monitor changes to your vision. The information provided above will help you identify vision disorders you might experience as you age.
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