New Paragraph
August 25, 2025
Glaucoma in Seniors: Protecting Vision Through Early Detection and Care
Glaucoma
is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to high eye pressure. It's one of the leading causes of blindness in seniors and can progress silently. Regular eye exams and early treatment are key to preserving vision.
Understanding Glaucoma:
- Open-angle glaucoma is the most common and progresses slowly.
- Angle-closure glaucoma occurs quickly and is a medical emergency.
- Risk increases with age, family history, diabetes, and hypertension.
Warning Signs:
- Often no symptoms early on
- Gradual loss of peripheral vision
- Eye pain or headaches in acute cases
- Blurred vision or halos around lights
How to Manage and Prevent Vision Loss:
- Regular Eye Exams – Especially for those over 60 or with risk factors.
- Eye Drop Medications – To lower intraocular pressure.
- Healthy Lifestyle – Regular exercise and good blood pressure control.
- Sun Protection – Wearing sunglasses helps prevent eye strain and UV damage.
In-Home Care Role:
- Remind seniors to take eye drops as prescribed
- Provide transportation to ophthalmology appointments
- Make home modifications like increased lighting and clear walkways
- Assist with reading and navigating safely
Vision loss doesn’t have to be inevitable. With early detection, treatment, and support from compassionate in-home caregivers, seniors can continue to enjoy visual independence and a high quality of life.