Lisa Peake – FLORIDA TODAY

Q: What should I expect as my eyes age?

A: Before we launch into this subject, let me get my reading glasses out! Yes, as we grow older, our bodies change—including our eyes. Vision is central to our independence, confidence, and daily comfort. For middle-aged adults and seniors alike, staying informed about eye health is one of the most valuable steps you can take toward preserving your quality of life.

Presbyopia is a change most people experience– the gradual loss of the eye’s ability to focus on close objects. Most people begin noticing this shift in their 40s or 50s, often recognizing it when reading small print becomes difficult. This is a normal part of aging, with a simple solution: reading glasses. These inexpensive “cheaters” can be purchased in varying strengths in nearly every drugstore or grocery.

Cataracts is one of several age-related eye diseases. Cataracts affect millions of older adults and occur when the eye’s lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurred or dimmed vision. Cataracts develop slowly and early symptoms can be subtle, which is why routine eye exams are essential. Fortunately, modern cataract surgery is highly successful and often restores clarity with remarkable results.

Glaucoma is a group of diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure within the eye. The “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma will “gradually impair vision without noticeable warning signs or symptoms,” according to the Glaucoma Research Foundation. While blindness from glaucoma is rare with access to care, monitoring and treatment is absolutely essential to preserving your vision.

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is another condition that becomes more common in later life. It affects central vision—the sharp, detailed sight needed for reading, driving, and recognizing faces. Early symptoms may include blurriness or straight lines appearing wavy. Because AMD can significantly impact daily function, learning to recognize early warning signs and understanding treatment options is key.

Dry eye, floaters, reduced night vision, and increased light sensitivity are also frequent companions to aging– and deserving of your attention. Dry eye, for instance, can cause discomfort and visual fluctuation, while persistent floaters may occasionally signal something more serious, such as a retinal tear.

The good news is that many age-related eye issues are manageable—when detected early. Wearing UV-protective sunglasses, managing diabetes and high blood pressure, eating a nutrient-rich diet and quitting smoking– all help support long-term eye health. Bring your questions to Senior Health Friday on January 9^th, when my guest will be Dr. Garcia with Space Coast Ophthalmology. RSVP online at OneSeniorPlace.com/events or call 321-751-6771 in Viera.

Lisa Peake is a Registered Nurse, Certified Dementia Practitioner and Certified Care Manager for One Senior Place Care Management, Viera. Ms. Peake hosts a monthly seminar, ‘Senior Health Friday with Nurse Lisa.’ One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Submit your questions to AskOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com. For immediate help, call 321-751-6771 or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging.