The Aging Eye

One of the most common misconceptions that elderly patients have about their vision is that as they get older, their eyes will slowly deteriorate. Age, however, is not a reason for failing vision. In fact, most elderly people have excellent vision. Nonetheless, the most common eye diseases that cause loss of vision do become more prevalent in the aging population. Therefore, it is important to have your eyes checked regularly if you are over 50 to monitor for any potentially treatable eye diseases.

By far, the most common eye disease to affect aging patients is cataracts. In fact, cataracts will affect every person if they live long enough. They are, in essence, a natural aging process of the lens of the eye. As one gets older, the lens will start turning cloudy, and eventually, if untreated, will lead to blindness. Despite the availability of surgery, cataracts are still one of the top three causes of blindness in the United States and the number one cause of blindness worldwide.

The most common cause of blindness in developed countries is age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The macula is simply the center of the retina. It is the part of the retina we use to see fine details, such as reading or recognizing faces. In macular degeneration, this important part of the retina starts to degenerate, or "wear out." As its name implies, age is a major risk factor for developing AMD. In fact, 10% of people 66-74 years of age will have signs of AMD, whereas almost 30% of people from 75-85 years of age will show signs of the disease. In most cases, AMD cannot be treated, although several studies have shown that antioxidants and some nutrients play a role in preventing progression of the disease. In more severe forms of the disease, laser treatment to the macula can restore vision in some patients. There is some good news, however. A lot of research is being done on AMD, and we may soon have better treatments for macular degeneration.

Glaucoma is another leading cause of blindness in the world. Glaucoma is often referred to as the "Sneak Thief of Sight" because it doesn’t have any symptoms or warnings in its early stages. The only way it can be diagnosed early is with a complete eye exam. If found early, glaucoma can usually be treated successfully to prevent blindness. If left untreated, however, glaucoma slowly damages the optic nerve, causing irreversible damage along the way, and eventually leads to complete blindness.

Dry eyes are a major problem for some aging people, but this is usually not sight threatening. As we age, the tear glands simply don’t work as well. This can result in dry, burning, or itchy eyes. It can cause intermittent blurring of your vision, especially after reading for awhile or late in the day. Frequently, the eye will start to "water" to try to catch up on the dryness. Placing artificial teardrops in your eyes can treat mild or intermittent dry eyes. There are also several simple office procedures that can increase the effectiveness of your own natural tears.

Eyelid problems, such as drooping eyelids, also become more of a problem with age. If your eyelid position interferes with your vision or causes discomfort to your eye, surgery is indicated to re-position the eyelids.

Although there are several eye diseases that affect the aging eye, most people can maintain good vision if their eyes are checked regularly and diseases treated early and properly. All people over 50 years of age should have their eyes examined every two years, and those over 65 on a yearly basis. Furthermore, if you notice changes in your vision, you should see your eye doctor as soon as possible.