Cataracts and Aging

Always Best Care Senior Services and American Academy of Ophthalmology want to tell us about cataracts myths. Read More….

[USPRwire, Tue Aug 10 2010] Did you know that more than half of all Americans develop cataracts by age 80? It is so common that approximately 20.5 million Americans age 40 and older have to live with cataracts.

To recognize Cataract Awareness Month in August, American Academy of Ophthalmology and your local Always Best Care Senior Services want to debunk the myths about cataracts and remind seniors that they don't have to live with vision loss from cataracts. Assistance for seniors with their activities of daily living is also available from home care agencies in the community.

A cataract is the clouding of the eye's normally clear lens, blocking the passage of light needed for vision. They form slowly and cause no pain. Some stay small and hardly affect vision, but if the cataract does grow and begin to affect your vision, it can usually be removed with surgery. In this case, consult an eye care medical professional to determine your options.

"Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide; however, in most cases, vision loss from cataracts is reversible," said Allan Encarnacion, a Certified Senior Advisor in San Mateo. Technological advances and the availability of new procedures in the United States mean that for most Americans, cataracts don't lead to vision loss.

So how do you know if a senior have a cataract? Some people notice a gradual painless blurring of vision, double vision in one eye or fading or yellowing of colors. When older patients mention sensitivity to glare and/or bright light or trouble driving at night, this may be caused by cataracts. Or, if a patient needs frequent changes to his or her glasses or contact lens prescriptions, this can be a sign of cataract.

Home care agencies can provide assistance to seniors who are suffering from cataract. Poor eyesight is one of the leading causes for falls in a senior’s home. The ability to drive a vehicle safely is also compromised. Consult with a senior care specialist to assist in a home safety assessment.