How Can Seniors Prevent Eye Strain?

As people age, their eyesight can become weaker and more prone to strain. Seniors, in particular, are at a higher risk of eye strain due to a combination of factors such as spending more time on screens, reduced tear production, and eye muscle weakness. Fortunately, there are several ways that seniors can prevent eye strain and keep their eyes healthy. Many of those tips are easier if home care assistance is there with them.

Take Breaks from Screens

One of the most important steps seniors can take to prevent eye strain is to take frequent breaks when using screens. Experts recommend following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look away from the screen for 20 seconds and focus on an object 20 feet away. This allows the eye muscles to relax and reduces the strain caused by staring at a screen for an extended period of time.

Adjust Lighting

Lighting is another important factor when it comes to preventing eye strain in seniors. If the lighting in the room is too dim or too bright, it can cause the eyes to work harder than necessary, leading to strain and fatigue. Home care assistance can help seniors and family caregivers to assess the lighting in the home and adjust it if needed.

Wear Proper Eyeglasses

Another important factor in preventing eye strain is to ensure seniors have the correct prescription for their glasses or contact lenses. Wearing the wrong prescription can cause eye strain and headaches. Seniors should have their eyes checked regularly to ensure they have the correct prescription, and that any necessary adjustments are made. Seniors can also take steps to protect their eyes when they are outside by wearing sunglasses that provide protection against harmful UV rays. This can help prevent eye strain and reduce the risk of developing cataracts and other eye conditions associated with exposure to UV rays.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is essential for maintaining good eye health and preventing strain. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce the risk of age-related vision problems, such as macular degeneration and cataracts. It’s also important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding dehydrating beverages, such as alcohol and caffeine.

Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise is beneficial for overall health, including eye health. Exercise improves circulation, which can help prevent eye strain by ensuring that the eyes receive an adequate blood supply. It’s important to engage in regular physical activity, even if it’s just a brisk walk around the block or some gentle stretching exercises.

Use Eye Drops

Seniors with dry or irritated eyes should consider using eye drops for relief because excess dryness and irritation can cause eye strain. Eye drops help to lubricate the eyes and prevent dryness, which can be exacerbated by screen use or other activities that require prolonged visual focus. If seniors have a hard time using eye drops, elder care providers can help make this easier, too.

Maintain Good Eye Health

Maintaining good eye health is another crucial factor in preventing eye strain. Seniors should get regular eye exams to check for changes in vision or other eye conditions. If seniors no longer drive, home care assistance can help them to get to their eye appointments as necessary. It’s never good to skip eye exams if at all possible.

Seniors can do a lot to reduce eye strain and keep their eyes as healthy as possible. Ignoring new symptoms is not a good plan, either, and home care assistance can help seniors stay on track with any changes they are experiencing with their vision.