How to Lower Your Risk for Age-Related Blindness

Aging increases our risk of developing vision problems. Conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss if not properly managed. The good news is that many of these conditions are preventable or manageable with the right lifestyle choices. 

In Santa Monica, California, board-certified ophthalmologist E. Joseph Nadji, MD, and our team support you in your eye care journey as you reach different stages in life. By taking steps now, you can significantly lower your risk for age-related blindness and maintain healthy vision as you age. 

Maintain a healthy diet

What you eat directly affects your eye health. Minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants help protect your eyes from damage. Nutrients like lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids are particularly beneficial for preventing macular degeneration and other eye conditions.

Leafy greens like kale and spinach contain lutein and zeaxanthin and are natural antioxidants that filter harmful blue light and protect the retina. Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation in the eye and promote healthy blood circulation to the retina, while foods high in vitamin C can help maintain the health of blood vessels in the eyes.

A healthy, well-balanced diet not only supports your overall health but also plays a significant role in preventing age-related blindness and lowering the risk of other chronic conditions that can negatively impact vision. What you eat matters, and it can make a difference in your eye health and beyond.

Get regular eye exams

Getting regular eye exams lowers your risk for age-related blindness. Many severe eye conditions, like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, don’t have noticeable symptoms in their early stages. But don't worry, an eye exam is a simple and painless procedure that can detect these conditions before they cause permanent damage.

We screen for signs of macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and other age-related conditions during the exam. Early detection of these issues increases the likelihood that prompt treatment can prevent permanent damage to your vision.

Protect your eyes from the sun

Protecting your eyes from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays is another important way to preserve your vision as you age. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause your risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration to increase.

Always wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays outside. Look for sunglasses labeled "UV400" or those that provide complete UV protection. A wide-brim hat can also offer additional protection by shielding your eyes from direct sunlight.

Even on cloudy days, UV rays can still cause harm, so wear sunglasses whenever you’re outdoors. This simple step can help reduce the risk of UV damage to your eyes and provide long-term protection for your vision.

Don’t smoke

Smoking is one of the most notable risk factors for developing age-related blindness. It increases the likelihood of macular degeneration, cataracts, and optic nerve damage. The chemicals in cigarette smoke can cause oxidative stress, which damages the cells in the retina and accelerates the aging process of the eyes.

If you smoke, quitting can positively affect your eye health. Even if you’ve smoked for years, stopping can lower your risk for further damage and improve your overall health.

Work with us to monitor and manage risks

Take a proactive approach to preserving your eye health and reducing the risks associated with aging. Call the office or schedule an appointment online so we can guide you on the best preventive measures tailored to your health needs.