Aging changes the body in several ways. Some of the changes aren’t as enjoyable as others. One of the changes is that your vision changes. It can be minor changes, such as never being able to read the fine print without magnification. Some changes are more concerning. Help your parents keep their eyes healthy to prevent them from common eye conditions.
Home Care in Troy MI: Senior Eye Health
Schedule Regular Eye Exams
Regular visits to the eye doctor help with eye health. While it can be hard to avoid getting diseases like glaucoma or cataracts, there are ways to lessen their impact. The doctor may recommend avoiding driving when headlights are needed. For eye conditions like dry eyes or ocular rosacea, warm compresses, proper eyelid care, and fish oil and flaxseed oil supplements are important.
The earlier you diagnose diseases like diabetic retinopathy, the better it is. Controlling blood sugar levels is an important step and easier to do if you know you have the disease.
Protect the Eyes When Outside
When you’re outside, sunglasses that protect against UVA and UVB rays are important. On cloudy days, it’s still important to wear sunglasses as the clouds only block some of the rays from reaching your skin. The sunglasses need to cover all of the eyes, so large frames are ideal.
Sunglasses are also helpful on windy days. They stop dust particles from flying into the eyes.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Make sure your parents eat a balanced diet that has the vitamins and minerals they need for cell health. Antioxidants like vitamin C and E are important. So are zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and lutein.
Your parents want to make sure they’re eating oily fish like salmon each week. Leafy, green vegetables, blueberries, and other berries, oranges, beans, and nuts are also important. They should aim for those items daily.
Ideally, your parents should be eating more fruits and vegetables than starches and meats each day. They want to focus on lean proteins like dried beans, seafood, and poultry. Dairy is needed for calcium and vitamin D. Whole grains and nuts are good. Frozen berries and nut milk makes for an easy breakfast if your parents aren’t likely to eat first thing in the morning.
Make Sure They Stop Driving When They’re Told To
What’s important is that your parents stop driving if their doctor says it’s time. They don’t have to give up their freedom by handing over the keys. Hire senior care aides to drive your parents to stores, houses, and business offices. Senior care aides can escort them to doctor’s appointments, help them shop for items, and pick up refills. Call to learn more.