Caregiving
By Kelley Hansen, Aging and Caregiving Specialist Healthy Vision Eyes are not just the window into our souls, but a glimpse into our health. Eye changes can signal vision problems, stress, tiredness, diabetes, or even retinal detachment. Caregivers tend to disregard these changes, but vision loss can cause communication barriers. Your loved one depends on you to meet their needs and if you are not taking care of yourself first who will? There are many things you can do as a caregiver to maintain healthy eyes. 1. Eye Exams You may wonder when you have time to see an optometrist, but making time is important. Comprehensive dilated eyes are the only way to detect the early stages of eye diseases. While Medicare does not cover routine eye exams, eyeglasses, or contact lenses, you may be covered for vision coverage under different plans. 2. Sleep Lack of sleep can affect your eyes because your eyes need relaxation and rest. Also, when eyes rest, they lubricate and clean out irritants. One way to get needed sleep is to arrange respite or in-home help. 3. Healthy Diet Ensure that your care recipient and you are eating nutritious foods. Research has shown that diets rich in fruits, vegetables (mainly dark leafy
greens), and fish oils (omega-3) play an important role in eye health. 4. Protective Eyewear Protective wear from sun exposure can help reduce the chances of cataracts and age-related muscular degeneration. Find yourself a great pair of sunglasses, treat yourself. 5. Weight Carrying extra weight is linked to health risks such as diabetes and glaucoma which can cause vision loss. Managing weight and blood sugar levels helps your eyes. 6. Physical Activity Going for a walk is a great way for caregivers to release stress, but it also increases blood circulation and oxygenation for the eyes. 7. Genetics Caregivers learn about their family history when it comes to dementia, Alzheimer’s, heart disease, but have you looked into the family history when it comes to your eyes? This can
help your eye doctor plan necessary preventative measures to maintain eye health. 8. Screen Time Caregivers spend many hours on their phones, computers, and tablets due to research, scheduling appointments, and resources. This can cause eye strain. Remember to take breaks often and keep the screens 20-24 inches away from your eyes. Every 20 minutes look 20 feet in front of you for 20 seconds. As we age, our vision changes in typical ways including reducing the ability to see up close, having trouble distinguishing some colors, and needing more time to adjust to changing levels of light. Implementing these healthy habits can protect both your vision and your lifestyle. If you need help with vision resources, please reach out to PCOA’s Helpline (520) 790-7262 for resources that include low-cost vision care and exams, vision loss support groups, and vision loss technology.
July 2023, Never Too Late | Page 15
Pima Council on Aging
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