Five Ways to Protect Your Eyes as You Age

As we age, our eyes are more susceptible to eye diseases. As you might deduce from the name, age-related macular degeneration affects older people. However, conditions like diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, glaucoma, and dry eye also become more likely as people grow older. Fortunately, these conditions are not a certainty, no matter how old you are.

You can protect your vision with healthy habits. In fact, by following these five practices, you can greatly decrease your likelihood of developing eye problems.

• Don’t smoke. Smoking damages every part of your body, so it’s no surprise that it’s bad for your eyes. Smokers are at a much higher risk than non-smokers for conditions like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
• Eat a diet full of fruit, vegetables, fish, and nuts. Dark leafy greens, carrots and sweet potatoes, and other colorful vegetables full of nutrients like lutein, beta-carotene, and vitamins A, C, and E can help protect your eyes. So can lean proteins, especially those from non-animal sources like nuts, oily fish, which are full of healthy omega-3 fatty acids and eggs, which are packed with lutein.
• Protect your eyes when you go outside. Wear sunglasses and a hat if you’re going to be in bright In fact, even if it doesn’t seem very sunny, wear sunglasses anyway, to guard against UV rays. Wear goggles in the pool and protective eyewear when you’re participating in active outdoor activities.
• Exercise regularly. Many recent studies underscore the importance of regular exercise for optimal eye health. Additionally, moderate-intensity, low impact exercises may reduce eye pressure in young adults who have glaucoma.
• Get regular checkups- for both your body and your eyes. Many people have an annual physical, yet neglect to see a doctor about their eyes. Healthy young adults should have an eye exam every year.

If you need an eye exam and are looking for a reliable eye doctor in Derry, Spindel Eye Associates is here for you. Celebrating over thirty years of eye care, we proudly serve patients in Derry, Londonderry and Windham, providing personalized eye care using top-of-the-line technology. For more information or to schedule an appointment call 603.421.6536 or contact us through our website.