As we age, various changes occur in our bodies, including our vision. Certain age-related vision changes are common and generally not a cause for concern. However, some changes may indicate the onset of a more serious eye condition. Understanding the difference between normal age-related vision changes and the warning signs of more serious issues is essential for maintaining long-term eye health. Here are some of the vision changes commonly associated with aging and the signs that warrant professional evaluation.
Common Vision Changes with Age
Are you relying on reading glasses more often?
This may be a sign of presbyopia, the age-related decline in near vision that typically begins in the early to mid-40s. Presbyopia is one of the most common age-related vision changes, making it increasingly difficult to see objects up close.
Do you have difficulty seeing at night?
Another common age-related vision change is reduced night vision. As we age, our pupils become less responsive to light changes. As a result, we may need more time to adjust to darkness or require better lighting for reading. Driving at night is also more difficult.
Do you have dry eyes?
Dry eyes also become increasingly common with age. This condition occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears, when the tears are not the correct consistency, or evaporate too quickly, causing irritation, burning, or a gritty sensation.
Warning Signs of Serious Eye Conditions
While some of these changes are expected, others may indicate more serious eye conditions that require immediate medical attention.
- Glaucoma – often called the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma can develop without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Eventually, it damages the optic nerve, leading to vision loss and potential blindness. Symptoms to watch for include loss of peripheral vision, severe eye pain, and seeing halos around lights.
- Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) – AMD is the leading cause of age-related vision loss in the United States, affecting over 11 million people. Unlike glaucoma, AMD rarely leads to complete blindness. However, if left untreated, it can result in significant central vision loss, making it difficult to drive, read, recognize faces, and perform close-up tasks.
- Cataracts – As the eye’s natural lens ages, proteins accumulate, causing it to become cloudy, a condition known as cataracts. Cataracts develop gradually, often without early symptoms. As they progress, they can cause blurry vision, difficulty with night driving, and increased sensitivity to glare. The good news is that cataracts are highly treatable with cataract surgery, which can restore clear vision.
- Diabetic retinopathy – Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye disease caused by diabetes. High blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the retina. It often presents no symptoms in its early stages, making routine eye exams critical for early detection. However, as the condition progresses, it can cause floating spots or blurred vision, poor night vision, and, in severe cases, total vision loss.
When to Contact Florida Eye Specialists
Regular eye exams become increasingly important as we age, particularly for those with risk factors such as diabetes or family history of eye disease. Early detection through regular eye exams remains the best defense against vision loss, as many serious conditions can be managed effectively when identified in their early stages.
Schedule an appointment at Florida Eye Specialists to discuss your options with one of our experienced eye specialists.