Common Age-Related Eye Diseases


A large portion of the baby boomer population is beginning to get older and develop age-related eye diseases. Millions are already struggling with an eye disease and about 25 million people over the age of 40 have cataracts while another 2.5 million suffer from glaucoma. 

It isn’t uncommon for eye diseases to seemingly appear out of nowhere, so if you or your loved one develop one of these inconvenient conditions, in-home senior care can provide help. 

Cataracts are the most common eye disease and, unfortunately, there is no cure. The only way to effectively treat cataracts is surgery. After an individual turns 40, clumps of protein can form in the lens of the eye and cause a cloudy look, leading to loss of vision that glasses and eyewear cannot correct. 

Glaucoma is another common age-related eye condition and the risk increases for those over age 45. Those who have a family history of the disease, are nearsighted or farsighted, have diabetes, get migraines or have low blood pressure are at even greater risk. Treatment for glaucoma includes using eye drops to lower pressure and surgery is sometimes used to create a better flow of fluid out of the eye. 

People between the ages of 40 and 54 should have an eye exam every 2 to 4 years while those ages 55 and up should schedule those annually or every two to three years.