Did you know that according to the United States National Eye Institute, more than half of all Americans by the age of 80 either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery?
Although most cataracts are related to aging, there are several other types including:
· Secondary - these are cataracts that form after surgery for other eye problems. Secondary cataracts can also develop in people who have diseases such as diabetes or other health related issues.
· Traumatic - these cataracts can develop after a serious injury to the eye
· Congenital - some babies are born with cataracts and while some may be small and not affect vision, others need to be corrected surgically
· Radiation - these cataracts can form after you’ve been exposed to some forms of radiation
Cataracts can affect your vision in many ways. When the proteins of a cataract clump up, they cloud the lens in your eye, which can become severe enough to blur your vision over time. Other cataracts can cause the clear lens of your eye to change to a yellow/brown color causing a brownish tint to your vision. Advanced lens discoloration can lead to the inability to distinguish certain colors like blue and purple.
The risks of cataracts certainly increase as you get older but there are other risk factors to consider as well. Certain diseases like the aforementioned diabetes, smoking, alcohol and prolonged exposure to sunlight can all play a part in a cataract’s development.
While cataracts affect a good majority of the population in one way or another, there are several things you can do to protect yourself and your vision. Wearing sunglasses and wide-brim hats to protect your eyes from harmful UV light may delay the onset of cataracts. Researchers also believe balanced eating habits and good nutrition can ward off the beginning of cataracts. A diet rich in leafy green vegetables, fruits and other foods high in antioxidants are preferred. Additionally, if you are 60 or older, you should consider having a dilated comprehensive eye exam once a year or at least once every two years. Early treatment from an eye care professional may just save your sight.
At Interim Healthcare, we believe the health of your eyes is just as important as the health of your body. That’s why so many of our independently owned & operated franchise offices offer educational monthly presentations designed to inform seniors about maintaining a healthy lifestyle and their independence. Topics range from cancer prevention to heart disease, osteoporosis, healthy aging and cataracts. If you would like to learn more about Interim Healthcare, our educational series, senior home care or our medical home healthcare services, please visit www.interimhealthcare.com.
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