Growing older is not always easy. You may notice many aspects of your health start to decline with age. More regular visits with your doctor will provide guidance on how your overall health is doing, including your eye health. Learn the three steps to taking care of your eyes and preventing your vision from worsening as you age.* 

1.  Visit an eye doctor regularly. 

Since many eye diseases are asymptomatic, regularly seeing an eye doctor (optometrist) is imperative to good eye health. If you are 55 years or older, it is recommended to see an optometrist at least once every other year. People at higher risk, such as those with diabetes, may need to go more often. 

An optometrist will help prevent your vision from worsening by:

• Diagnosing and treating common eye problems
• Keeping your eyeglass prescription up-to-date
• Checking for all types of eye disease
• Referring you to other specialists, such as eye surgeons, when necessary 

2.  Budget for proper eye care. 

Eye care expenses should be looked at as an investment. Good vision is necessary for many daily activities and helps you maintain a good quality of life. Budgeting now for preventive care costs, such as vision exams and eyeglasses, can save you money over time and prevent eye conditions from worsening. 

The cost of proper eye care does not have to be expensive, either. Your insurance carrier can explain to you what your out-of-pocket expenses may be and what all your insurance will cover. Health insurance, private plans, Medicare, and Medicaid may all cover a portion of vision costs.

3.  Make changes to help yourself see better. 

Take time to learn about eye health and speak with your optometrist on how you may prevent your vision from worsening.

In general, a few small changes can help prevent your vision from worsening: 

• Wear sunglasses or a hat with a brim when you are outdoors in bright sunshine.
• Improve the lighting around your house.
• Wear safety eyewear when working around your house or playing sports.

In addition, good overall health may prevent negative impacts on your eyes. Some lifestyle choices that may benefit your vision are: 

• Follow a well-balanced diet.
• Stay physically active.
• Control your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, diabetes, and any other health concerns or conditions.
• Quit smoking.

Optometrists and other eye care professionals may prescribe medicine to help your vision when you have glaucoma or other eye diseases. Taking these medications exactly as prescribed, including the exact amount and the appropriate time, is imperative for the medicine to work effectively and prevent vision loss. 

What to do if my vision is worsening?

If you find your vision worsening from an eye disease or an eye injury, speak with your optometrist or eye care professional immediately. 

Some other considerations that may help include: 

• Use a low-vision aid, such as a magnifying glass, high-intensity reading lamps, and large-print reading materials.
• Discuss vision rehabilitation training with your doctor, which can teach you skills for living with low vision.

*Prevent Blindness. (2020, April 21). Growing Older With Good Vision. https://preventblindness.org/growing-older-with-good-vision/