Why is my eyesight getting worse as I get older?
Did you know that our vision typically matures by the age of 8 or 9, reaching adult levels? However, our eyesight doesn’t stay static. Throughout life, our need for glasses and the strength of our prescription often fluctuate.
For many, short-sightedness progresses through childhood, teenage years, and even into their twenties before stabilising. Most people report their eyesight peaks in their twenties and thirties. Then, by their forties, a new change often begins as reading glasses become a necessity for many.
What Happens to Our Eyes as We Age?
Our eyes undergo significant changes over time. Factors like diet play a crucial role in maintaining eye health. Nutrients such as Omega-3, Vitamin A, and Zinc are essential for healthy vision. Remember being told to eat carrots to see in the dark? There’s truth to that! Carrots contain carotene, an antioxidant and a form of Vitamin A that helps eyes adjust to darkness. Leafy greens like kale and spinach are also eye superfoods. They’re packed with antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which help keep your vision sharp and protect against age-related macular degeneration.
Common Eye Conditions in Older Adults
As we age, our eyes face new challenges. The gradual loss of the ability to focus on nearby objects, known as presbyopia, typically begins around age 40. Other common conditions include:
- Cataracts: Clouding of the eye’s natural lens.
- Macular Degeneration: A deterioration of the central part of the retina, impacting detailed vision.
- Glaucoma: Increased pressure in the eye that can damage the optic nerve.
Regular eye exams are key to detecting and managing these conditions early.
Does Screen Time Impact Vision?
Excessive screen time can strain our eyes. Digital eyestrain occurs when we blink less frequently while staring at screens, leading to dry eyes, blurred vision, and discomfort. Prolonged use of screens also limits outdoor activities and natural light exposure, both of which are vital for eye health. Spending time outdoors helps prevent myopia (short-sightedness) in children, supports Vitamin D production, and maintains a healthy sleep-wake cycle.
Give your eyes a break by practicing the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Can Lifestyle Choices Affect Vision?
Absolutely. Studies suggest that consuming more than three alcoholic drinks daily can increase the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Excessive alcohol consumption impacts liver function, leading to a build-up of toxins that may damage the optic nerve over time. Smoking is another factor that accelerates vision problems, as it reduces blood flow to the eyes and increases the risk of cataracts and AMD.
The takeaway? A balanced lifestyle with minimal alcohol and no smoking goes a long way in preserving your vision.
How Can We Protect Our Eyesight?
Here are some tips for safeguarding your vision:
- Wear UV Protection: Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays with sunglasses or clear lenses with built-in UV protection.
- Prioritise Eye-Healthy Foods: Include Omega-3s, Vitamin A, Zinc, and antioxidants in your diet.
- Take Breaks from Screens: Follow the 20-20-20 rule to reduce digital strain.
- Regular Check-Ups: Visit your optometrist regularly to catch any issues early.
What Should You Do If Your Vision Deteriorates?
Don’t chalk up significant changes in vision to “just getting older.” Conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma become more common with age but can often be treated if caught early. Delaying treatment, even for a few months, can sometimes result in irreversible damage. If you notice changes, schedule an eye exam right away.
Your eyesight is precious. For more information or to book an eye test, click here.