Share with a friendTaking care of your eyes and getting regular examinations can prevent many leading causes of blindness. Learn what you can do to preserve your sight at any stage of life.
Many eye diseases and disorders become more common as we age. Advances in ophthalmology allow most people to maintain good vision as they grow older. Many eye problems can be prevented or corrected if detected in their early stages.
Regular eye examinations by an ophthalmologist (Eye M.D.) are the best way to detect eye conditions early, while they can be treated.
Protect Your Eyes From the Sun
Like your skin, your eyes never forget UV exposure. Studies show that exposure to bright sunlight may increase the risk of developing cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), both leading causes of vision loss among older adults. UV exposure, wind and dust can also cause pterygia, benign growths on the eye's surface.
Select sunglasses that block ultraviolet rays. Don't be deceived by color or cost. The ability to block UV light is not dependent on the darkness of the lens or the price tag.
Prevent Eye Injuries
More than one million people suffer from eye injuries each year in the United States. Ninety percent of these injuries could have been prevented if the individual had been wearing appropriate protective eyewear (with "ANSI Z87.1" marked on the lens or frame).
Remember to shield your eyes appropriately when playing sports and during common household tasks such as working with chemicals, mowng the lawn, and working on your car.
Alternative Therapies
The American Academy of Ophthalmology creates and publishes Alternative Therapies Assessments of various eye care treatments, based on the published scientific evidence on their safety and effectiveness.
