SHARES
As we age, we experience age-related eye diseases such as cataract, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy. Nevertheless, there are steps that we can take to keep eyes healthy as we age gracefully.
Maintain a healthy diet
An eye-healthy diet that is rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids keeps the macula intact. The macula is a small spot in the retina, which is required for sharp, central vision.
Foods that keep the macula healthy are:
- Brightly coloured fruits
- Dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and kale
- Dark yellow and orange food, such as capsicum, corn and egg yolk
- Fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, tuna, and halibut
Stop smoking
Smoking can expose the eyes to harmful oxidative stress, which deteriorates eye health. Hence, smoking cessation is recommended. If you or your loved one need help with quitting smoking, seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Wear sunglasses
Excessive exposure to the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun can increase the risk of cataract and AMD. A good pair of sunglasses should block 99 % to 100 % of UV rays. Wraparound lenses also aid in protecting the eyes from the side.
Wear protective eyewear
Wearing safety eyewear when playing sports or operating machinery can prevent eye injury. Certain sports would necessitate the use of helmets or sport goggles to shield the eyes; meanwhile, safety glasses or protective goggles can be used when handling machinery. However, if eye injury occurs, consult a doctor immediately.
Look away from the computer screen
Staring at the screen for too long can cause eyestrain, blurry vision, trouble focusing at a distance or dry eyes. A good way to avoid straining the eyes is to follow the 20-20-20 rule: Rest the eyes every 20 minutes by looking 20 feet (or 6 m) away for 20 seconds. Taking a 15-minute break at least every 2 hours helps to relieve tired eyes as well.
Visit your eye specialist regularly
A regular eye exam can detect eye diseases, especially those without any symptoms. When the disease is spotted at an early stage, it is relatively easier to treat. The examinations can be conducted by an optometrist or an ophthalmologist.
Eye exam is recommended for those:
- Over 40 years
- Who are smokers
- Who are highly short-sighted
- With previous eye injury
- With pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes
- With family history of eye disease
- With occupations that require high visual demands
- On certain long-term medication, such as steroids
- With suspicious symptoms
Your eyes are the windows to the soul. Vision connects us with our surroundings and protects us from danger. Hence, it becomes imperative to maintain good eye health. If you or your loved one noticed a significant change in vision, visit an ophthalmologist as soon as possible.
To learn more about the common age-related eye diseases, read here.
Acknowledgement:
Dr. Nikolle Tan, Ophthalmologist at Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, who has contributed to this article.
Reference:
- How to keep your eyes healthy [Internet] [cited 2018 July 25] Available from: https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/good-eyesight#1
- 60+ eye health. [Internet] [cited 2018 July 25] Available from: http://www.bausch.com/vision-and-age/60-eyes/maintaining-healthy-eyes
If you would like to make an appointment with an ophthalmologist:
Find an ophthalmologist in Malaysia, on GetDoc
Find an ophthalmologist in Singapore, on GetDoc
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by Joanne Lee
Multipotentialite. Loves creating and seeing ideas come alive. View all articles by Joanne Lee.
