It’s no secret that our vision starts to worsen as we get older. But maintaining good eye health can help us lead a more active, fulfilling life. So, as you age, what can you do to keep your eyes in good shape? As it turns out – a lot! Here are eight smart tips that can help.
1. Eat healthy foods
You’ve probably heard that eating certain foods can help improve your eyesight. Well, there’s some truth to that. Eating foods that have high amounts of vitamin C, antioxidants, lutein, and beta-carotene can lower your risk of macular degeneration. So, make sure to include the following foods in your diet: strawberries, kiwis, papayas, red bell peppers, oranges, carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale, broccoli, and squash.
2. Keep your eyes protected when stepping out
Yes, we need vitamin D, but direct sunlight can do a lot of damage to your eyes, and you risk the possibility of cancer. So, always bring a pair of sunglasses with you. Consider topping up prescription glasses with prescription sunglasses for an added benefit. That way, you won’t have to compromise both your vision and eye protection.
3. Wear your prescription glasses
Contact lenses and prescription glasses are prescribed to you for a reason. So, regardless of whether you’re far or nearsighted, make sure to wear your prescription eyewear. Not only are they beneficial for your vision, but they also reduce eye strain. Your eyes work harder to focus when you’re not wearing them, and this can lead to problems.
4. Make eye exams a part of your schedule
The best way to keep a check on your eye health is by scheduling regular eye exams – at least once every year. Even if you don’t think there’s anything wrong with your vision, there’s no harm in getting a check-up done. It’s not possible to know when something is wrong every time, but you are at least not delaying the detection of major eye problems.
5. Turn on the lights
Reading a book or looking at a bright screen in dim lighting can cause a lot of strain on your eyes. The eyes need light to process everything we see. While dim lighting may give off a romantic vibe, the eye strain isn’t worth it. So no matter what you’re doing, make sure that your rooms are well lit.
6. Exercise
You may not think physical activity can improve your eyesight, but it’s true. Regular exercise may be able to improve the blood flow to your eyes, which can increase the quality of your vision. So even though it seems strange, hopping on an exercise bike or jogging can be beneficial for your eyesight. This happens because exercise improves your blood flow leading to increased oxygen circulation to the eyes.
7. Give your eyes a break
If you read a lot or are on the computer throughout the day, make sure to take a 30-second break every 10-20 minutes. Breaks are essential in reducing eye strain. Be disciplined about this by setting a timer so you can practice this consistently. If you can afford it, try limiting your screen time too.
8. Don’t smoke
Not only does smoking affect your vital organs, but it can also impact your sight. Tobacco smoke irritates the eye, even for passive smokers and those who wear contact lenses. Smoking increases the risk of the following conditions: cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and Dry Eye Syndrome. Quitting smoking will improve your health and vision.
