This AMD Awareness Month, experts share some tips to ensure better vision for the elderly.
AMD is a disease that is characterized by the loss of tissue in the macula causing distorted or blurred central vision. Through a comprehensive eye exam, your eye doctor can detect AMD and prescribe treatments that can slow its progression. Once diagnosed, it is important to adhere to treatment and maintain a healthy lifestyle which can help effectively manage the condition.
Dr.Manmath Das, Head of the Retina Department, KIIMS, Bhubaneswar, said “The burden of age-related retinal diseases like “age related macular degeneration” is increasing in India hence timely diagnosis and early detection is of utmost importance. In my practice I see 10%-15% of patients that seek help have already suffered severe retinal damage. It is important that we identify the signs and symptoms of eye disease at a very initial stage and seek professional help at the earliest. Regularly visiting an optometrist or ophthalmologist can prevent retinal damage, vision loss and blindness by detecting underlying conditions at early stage. It is important for patients to maintain a healthy lifestyle to effectively manage diabetes and to prevent diabetic related eye diseases.”
Eye diseases and vision related problems can occur at any age. However, such incidences are higher among the elderly people due to lack of awareness.AMD (Age-related Macular Degeneration) specifically, is the leading cause of low vision in people over the age of 60.
Here are 5 simple tips that can help elderly people to maintain better eyesight:
Eat Healthy Foods: Diet plays a vital role in preserving retinal health. Consuming a diet rich in green leafy vegetables and fruits helps to maintain good eye-health. Walnuts, flaxseeds, fishes such as Cod, Salmo etc. are excellent sources of Omega-3 fatty acids that can preserve retinal health.
Regular Eye Checkup: The best thing to do to maintain good eye health is to have regular eye monitoring.A regular visit toyour ophthalmologist can help keep your eyes in check and also monitor if you are at an increased risk of certain eye diseases.Detecting a problem early can not only protect your vision but also help in preventing vision loss.
Adhere to the prescribed treatment: AMD can be effectively treated with drugs and laser therapy, and patients can use low vision aids for day-to-day use. Sticking to the prescribed schedule is the key to effective therapy outcomes!
Regular Exercise: Exercising regularly can help prevent conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, all of which can lead to chronic eye problems that can damage your vision. Exercise promotes healthy blood vessels in the eyes.
Always protect your eyes: It is important to protect your eyes from the UV rays. Exposure to sunlight increases the risk of age-related macular degeneration, and most people do not realize this until it’s too late. While buying sunglasses look for shades that block 99–100 percent of UVA and UVB radiation. Use UV coated sunglasses when you step out, or use glasses prescribed by a specialist if you are already seeking retinal or eye treatment.
AMD Awareness Monthmarks an opportunity to raise awareness of the growing, preventable burden of AMD and the importance of regular eye screenings especially amongst the elderly. This can drive timely care in the form of early diagnosis and disease management, so patients can avoid preventable blindness.