Our vision changes as we get older; this is a fact of life. People age 60 and older need to be vigilant about protecting their vision later in life. Many of the most serious eye diseases present no symptoms until vision has already been compromised. That is why it is essential for anyone age 60 and older to undergo comprehensive eye examinations each year.

What is the standard eye care for people over 60?

For people over the age of 60, any change in vision could be a warning sign of a problem that may result in vision loss. Regular eye exams are designed to screen for some of the more common age-related eye health issues.

• Cataracts
• Glaucoma
• Macular degeneration

Eye doctors have to take a more comprehensive approach when it comes to the health of patients over the age of 60. The reality is that health problems affecting other parts of the body can also have a negative effect on vision. Individuals with high blood pressure and diabetes have a higher risk of developing vision problems and will need to undergo more rigorous eye health screenings. It is also important for patients to take an active role in preserving their eye health. Any sudden symptom or change in vision should prompt a visit to the eye doctor.

Reasons to see the eye doctor after 60

After the age of 60, the risk of developing age-related eye diseases goes up significantly. Many of these diseases progress quickly and painlessly; if they are not treated promptly they can cause permanent vision loss.

Here are just a few of the age-related eye conditions that people over the age of 60 should be aware of:

• Age-related macular degeneration 
• Retinal detachment 
• Diabetic retinopathy 
• Glaucoma 
• Dry eye 
• Cataracts

Annual eye exams can catch many of these devastating eye diseases early, before they begin to impede vision.

Performing eye care for people over 60

Eye care for adults over the age of 60 is about preserving vision. Regular screenings are performed to identify eye disease in its earliest stages and treatment is offered to help patients retain their vision.

For those adults who must deal with vision loss, eye doctors are able to offer rehabilitative services. The goal is to protect remaining vision and provide the help needed for patients to retain their independence.

If you are 60 years of age or older, be sure to schedule a comprehensive eye examination with your optometrist. This exam can catch eye disease and disorders before they affect your vision.