Prevention and Treatment of Vision Loss

Prevention and Treatment of Vision Loss

Senior care providers must see the importance of setting an appointment with an ophthalmologist or optometrist for seniors under their care. Seniors who are over age 65 must have their eyes examined at least once a year. Those who have diabetes or experiencing initial signs of vision problems due to diabetes or high blood pressure might need more frequent examinations. The best prevention and treatment option for these seniors is to keep their blood pressure, cholesterol level and sugar levels under control.

Perhaps the best way to lower the risk of developing vision loss is having a healthy lifestyle. In home care providers must help seniors care for their retina by preparing them a diet fortified with antioxidants such as squash, kiwi, spinach, honeydew lemon, peas, brussel sprouts, apples, green beans, corn, pumpkin, grapes, peppers, orange juice, cucumber, scallions, celery, mango, and broccoli. Taking high levels of antioxidants as well as zinc can lower the risk of developing macular degeneration.

Limiting the exposure of the seniors’ eyes to the sunlight can help reduce the risk of having a cataract. If going out on a broad daylight is unavoidable, caregivers must asked seniors to wear protective sunglasses.

Vision loss treatments depend mainly on the cause. Surgery might be suggested for such conditions as cataracts. Diabetics might be advised to keep their blood-sugar level under control. A lens implant or laser might be recommended for seniors who are at a higher risk of getting cataract.

Senior care providers play a major role in safeguarding the eyes of seniors. Most importantly, they should if they are seeing signs that need immediate medical attention. Here are some signs that family members or caregivers should watch over:

1. When the senior is experiencing partial or complete blindness whether in one or both of his eyes. Senior care providers must contact a medical professional whether it is temporary or permanent.
2. If the senior is experiencing double vision, even though it is temporary.
3. He has the feeling that something is drawn over his eyes or a curtain is being pulled from the side.
4. He suddenly sees halos around lights, blind spots, or areas of faint vision.
5. He is experiencing eye pain, most especially if the eyes are red. Painful, red eyes need immediate medical attention.
6. For further information plaese call senior helpers at 732-657-3600 or 609-261-2995
7. or visit us at www.seniorhelpersnj.com