Keep an eye on glaucoma

The number of glaucoma cases is expected to double in the next 16 years as the aging population grows larger, highlighting the necessity of screenings and regular vision care for senior residents, according to the Prevent Blindness organization’s report, “Future of Vision: Forecasting the Prevalence and Costs of Vision Problems.”

Glaucoma is a degenerative disease that can cause blindness, but it can be treated if discovered early enough. Most early stages of glaucoma can’t be detected without a dilated eye exam. While Chronic (Open Angle) glaucoma is the most common type, three other types can inflict the eye: Normal Tension, Acute (Angle Closure), and Secondary glaucoma.

Proactive vision care also can reduce other risks: Poor vision leads to more falls, faulty balance, problems with reading and wayfinding, and less confidence in mobility. Degrading vision can even accelerate a person’s need for higher levels of care.

“We urge everyone, especially [those] age 40 and older, to make an appointment for a dilated eye exam from an eyecare professional,” said Hugh R. Parry, President and CEO of Prevent Blindness.

Pamela Tabar

Pamela Tabar was editor-in-chief of I Advance Senior Care from 2013-2018. She has worked as a writer and editor for healthcare business media since 1998, including as News Editor of Healthcare Informatics. She has a master’s degree in journalism from Kent State University and a master’s degree in English from the University of York, England.