As the “Baby Boomer” generation in the United States approaches their 60’s and beyond, the incidence of eye disease in this aging population will rise. Eye problems become more prevalent as an individual ages. What are the most common eye diseases in older people? How can eye geriatric eye disease be prevented and addressed naturally? And what does Baby Boomer natural eye care look like?
Macular Degeneration
A major reason for visual impairment and blindness in adults aged 50+ is Macular Degeneration, also known as ARMD (Aged-Related Macular Degeneration). Vision in the center of the visual field is impaired, but peripheral vision remains. People with macular degeneration have difficulty writing, driving, recognizing faces and reading. Symptoms include:
- Colors look dim
- Words appear blurred or difficult to read
- Straight lines look wavy
- Dark or blank areas block the center of your vision
- Distinct shapes are blurry
- Fog in the center of your vision
Anyone with any of these symptoms should get a thorough eye exam immediately.
To deal with Macular Degeneration, consider trying specific nutrients including CoQ10 with L-Carnitine and omega-3 fish oil that might slow down the rate of the disease. Look into lifestyle changes such as stopping smoking, working with your doctor to limit medications, daily exercise, and good emotional health. Daily use of Microcurrent Stimulation (MCS) may be helpful.
Cataracts
You probably know many older individuals who have been treated for cataracts via a simple out-patient surgery. UV radiation from sunlight has a cumulative effect on the lens of the eye. Other reasons for cataracts can include the natural hardening of the lens as an individual ages, heredity, poor nutrition, diabetes, smoking, stress and high alcohol intake (7+ alcoholic drinks per week doubles the risk of cataracts).
Symptoms of cataracts include:
- Fatigue while reading
- Trouble judging steps or distances
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Blurry vision especially in bright light
- The eye lens is cloudy
- Additional light is needed to read
- Seeing halos especially while in the sun
- Eye glasses always seem to be soiled
Natural prevention and treatment for cataracts includes a healthy lifestyle: good nutrition, regular exercise, and avoiding drinking excessive alcohol, soda, and caffeinated beverages. Juicing and supplements can also help.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is sneaky: You can’t tell you have it until it’s almost too late. The first symptom is usually a loss of peripheral vision, but by then, vision has already been lost. The answer is simple: get an annual eye exam that includes screening for glaucoma. Glaucoma can be treated with eye drops, medications, and sometimes lasers.
Aging is a natural process, but these common eye problems in older people can be prevented and treated. Living a healthy lifestyle and taking supplements for the eyes are a good first step to preventing all types of health problems as one ages, including eye disease.
Baby Boomer Natural Eye Care
Remember, most eye disease is preventable. Take care of your eyes as you age and enjoy a bright future!