How the eyes and vision are affected by age
It’s common to experience different eye conditions and diseases as you age. Fortunately, if treated early enough, many of them can be prevented/corrected.
Common age-related vision problems and eye diseases:
Presbyopia
As you age, Presbyopia becomes increasingly prevalent due to the gradual loss of elasticity in your eye's lens. This leads to difficulty in focusing on nearby objects.
Dry eye
Insufficient tear production can result in Dry eye, which causes discomfort and blurry vision due to an inadequate tear film. Dry eye symptoms are prevalent in the majority of individuals aged 65 and above.
Dimmed vision
As one ages, experiencing dimmed vision is a typical change. Activities such as reading or close-up work may require brighter lighting than before to perform comfortably.
Age-related macular degeneration
The primary cause of vision loss in adults aged 50 and above is Age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The initial symptom is a blurred central vision. Those with a family history of AMD, Caucasians, smokers, and individuals over 60 have the highest risk of developing this condition.
Glaucoma
The optic nerve that links the eye to the brain is impaired by Glaucoma, resulting in blind spots in the visual field as the nerve deteriorates. Glaucoma typically progresses gradually without any early warning signs or symptoms. Unfortunately, vision loss caused by Glaucoma is permanent and untreated Glaucoma can lead to complete blindness.
Cataracts
Cataracts occur due to the accumulation of proteins in the lens, in addition to UV exposure and the natural aging process, resulting in cloudy areas. Cataracts are prevalent among older adults, and symptoms include blurred vision, reduced or heightened sensitivity to light and color, double vision, and poor night vision. Cataracts progress gradually, but they can be corrected.
Diabetic retinopathy
When the blood vessels in the retina become damaged, it can cause Diabetic Retinopathy, which may result in vision issues and, in severe cases, blindness. The risk of developing diabetic retinopathy rises with the duration of diabetes. Consistent diabetic eye care is crucial for people with Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes, regardless of age.

