As we grow older, our vision can decline naturally, leading to various eye conditions. One notable issue is age-related macular degeneration (AMD), often affecting those over 50. It’s a primary cause of vision loss for older adults, impacting millions in the U.S. alone.
AMD can make reading, driving, or recognizing faces difficult. Unfortunately, there isn’t a cure, so catching it early is crucial. As Dr. Vaidehi Dedania, an ophthalmologist from NYU Langone Health, explains, advanced AMD can cause blurry vision, distortions, and dark spots in one’s sight.
Vision loss isn’t just a personal struggle; it can lead to more falls, lessen mobility, and affect independence, particularly within the senior community. Dr. Dedania highlights that we’re moving toward better ways to prevent vision loss rather than only reacting to it.
While genetics and aging are the main risk factors for AMD, there are lifestyle changes everyone can consider to lower their risk:
Quit Smoking: Smoking greatly increases the risk of AMD. The oxidative stress from tobacco can harm retinal cells, leading to faster disease progression. Dr. Dedania suggests that if someone quits smoking, they could reduce their risk to levels similar to those who are only affected by age and genetics over time.
Eat Well: A balanced diet can help combat AMD. Recent research by the University of California, Davis, shows that diets rich in processed foods may contribute to the disease. Dr. Dedania suggests following the Mediterranean diet, which includes plenty of leafy greens, to maintain eye health.
Consider Supplements: Some supplements, like the AREDS2 formula, have shown promise in slowing AMD progression. This study demonstrated benefits primarily for those in intermediate or later stages of the disease, indicating early intervention could be useful but isn’t guaranteed to prevent issues.
Exercise Regularly: Staying active isn’t just good for the body; it also helps with eye health. Regular exercise is known to reduce oxidative stress, which could lower the risk of worsening AMD.
Routine Eye Exams: Regular visits to the eye doctor are essential, especially for those over 50. Symptoms of AMD often don’t appear until the disease is advanced, making early detection critical.
Dr. Dedania emphasizes the importance of being proactive about eye health. Those aged 50 and older should discuss family histories of vision issues with their doctors, as this knowledge can provide valuable context during check-ups.
As we reflect on our lifestyle choices, it’s crucial to understand their impact on our eye health, especially as we age. Taking these steps now might make a significant difference in maintaining vision and overall quality of life later on. You can find more about AMD and eye health at the American Macular Degeneration Foundation.
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health,vision and hearing,healthy living,lifestyle,geriatric health
