September is recognized as Healthy Aging Month, a time dedicated to promoting the positive aspects of growing older and encouraging individuals to take proactive steps to maintain their health. One crucial aspect of healthy aging that often doesn’t get enough attention is eye health. At Paragon Eye Associates, we want to emphasize the importance of taking care of your vision as you age. This month, we’re focusing on how the National Eye Health Education Program (NEHEP) is helping raise awareness about eye health in aging populations and what you can do to protect your vision as you get older.

The Role of NEHEP in Promoting Eye Health

The National Eye Health Education Program (NEHEP) is an initiative of the National Eye Institute (NEI), designed to educate the public and health professionals about the importance of eye health. As part of its mission, NEHEP offers a variety of resources and programs aimed at increasing awareness of common eye conditions that can affect older adults, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy.

During Healthy Aging Month, NEHEP emphasizes the significance of regular eye exams, especially for individuals over the age of 50. The program highlights that early detection of eye conditions is crucial in preventing vision loss. Through educational materials, community outreach, and partnerships with healthcare providers, NEHEP works to ensure that older adults are informed about how to maintain their vision and prevent age-related eye diseases.

Protecting Your Vision as You Age

Aging brings with it a natural decline in vision, but there are several steps you can take to protect your eyes and reduce the risk of developing serious eye conditions like age-related macular degeneration:

1. Regular Eye Exams: The most important thing you can do to protect your vision is to schedule regular comprehensive eye exams. These exams allow your eye doctor to detect early signs of eye diseases that may not yet show symptoms. The earlier a condition like AMD is detected, the better your chances of managing it effectively.
2. Healthy Diet: Your diet plays a significant role in your eye health. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as leafy green vegetables, fruits, and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, can help protect your eyes from age-related conditions. Consider incorporating more spinach, kale, oranges, and salmon into your meals.
3. Quit Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for developing AMD and other eye diseases. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your overall health and your vision.
4. Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can increase your risk of cataracts and AMD. Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays and a wide-brimmed hat when you’re outside, even on cloudy days.
5. Manage Chronic Conditions: Conditions like diabetes and hypertension can significantly impact your eye health. If you have these or other chronic conditions, work with your healthcare provider to manage them effectively, as uncontrolled diabetes can lead to diabetic retinopathy, and high blood pressure can increase the risk of glaucoma.
6. Exercise Regularly: Physical activity improves blood circulation, which can help maintain the health of your eyes. Regular exercise has been linked to a reduced risk of developing eye conditions like glaucoma.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): What You Need to Know

AMD is one of the leading causes of vision loss in individuals over the age of 50. It affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision, which is necessary for activities like reading and driving. There are two types of AMD: dry and wet. While dry AMD progresses more slowly, wet AMD can lead to rapid and severe vision loss.

Early detection through regular eye exams is crucial for managing AMD. Treatments are available that can slow the progression of the disease, particularly if caught in the early stages. In addition to regular exams, adopting a healthy lifestyle—such as not smoking, eating a balanced diet, and protecting your eyes from UV rays—can help reduce your risk of developing AMD.

Schedule Your Eye Exam at Paragon

At Paragon Eye Associates, we’re committed to helping our patients maintain healthy vision throughout their lives. This September, in honor of Healthy Aging Month, we encourage you to take charge of your eye health by scheduling a comprehensive eye exam, adopting healthy habits, and staying informed about how to protect your vision as you age. Remember, early detection and proactive care are key to preserving your eyesight for years to come.

If you have any concerns about your vision or want to schedule an eye exam, please fill out the form below or call (817) 277-6433 for our Arlington office or (817) 477-0223 for our Mansfield office. We’re here to help you see clearly at every stage of life.