Aging & Vision Loss: A Growing Concern
September is Healthy Aging Month, a national observance aimed at promoting wellness for older adults. One key part of aging well is maintaining healthy vision. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, one in six Americans age 65 and older has a vision impairment that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses. And yet, many seniors skip essential eye exams that could detect problems early.
At Mississippi Retina Associates, we believe that protecting your sight is just as important as caring for your heart, joints, or brain as you age. Vision is deeply connected to independence, mobility, and quality of life—and it deserves your attention.
Common Age-Related Eye Diseases
As we get older, the risk for several serious eye conditions increases. Many of these conditions develop slowly and without early symptoms, making regular eye exams by an ophthalmologist critical to detection and treatment.
The most common age-related eye diseases include:
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) – a leading cause of central vision loss in adults over 60
- Diabetic retinopathy – damage to the blood vessels in the retina caused by diabetes
- Retinal detachment or tears – which can lead to sudden, severe vision loss if not treated quickly
- Glaucoma – a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve and may cause irreversible blindness
- Vitreous degeneration – natural changes to the gel-like substance in the eye that can increase floaters or lead to complications.
Early detection and intervention are essential in preserving vision and slowing disease progression.
For more information on age-related vision concerns, visit the National Eye Institute’s Healthy Aging resources or read these tips for healthy vision.
Why See an Ophthalmologist?
Routine vision checks may detect the need for corrective lenses, but only an ophthalmologist—a medical doctor specializing in eye health—can diagnose and treat the complex conditions that affect the retina, optic nerve, and internal structures of the eye.
At Mississippi Retina Associates, our board-certified specialists offer comprehensive care for age-related retinal disease. We use advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans to protect what matters most—your sight.
If you’re over 60, have diabetes, or a family history of eye disease, you may be at higher risk. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Regular dilated eye exams can catch problems early and help you stay ahead of preventable vision loss.
Protect Your Sight for the Years Ahead
Aging doesn’t have to mean losing your vision. With early care and attention, many age-related eye diseases can be managed or slowed. This Healthy Aging Month, take a proactive step: schedule a comprehensive eye exam and encourage your loved ones to do the same.
If you or someone you love is noticing changes in vision, or if you’ve been referred for specialty retinal care, Mississippi Retina Associates is here to help. Our compassionate team is committed to protecting the vision of Mississippians—every step of the way.
To learn more or schedule a visit, contact us today.
