Will There Be A Boom In Eye Diseases As Boomers Turn 60?

As baby boomers continue their march towards retirement, age-related eye disease has become an important health issue.

The American Optometric Association (AOA) reminds Americans 60 and older that early detection through a comprehensive eye exam can prevent or slow vision loss due to cataracts and other age-related eye diseases, such as macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.

“Today’s 60+-year-olds are more health conscious than 60+-year-olds 20 years ago,” said Richard C. Edlow, O.D., AOA information and data committee chairman.

“Being better informed about health risks, improved technology and treatment options has not necessarily translated into including regular eye examinations into their health care routine.”

The National Eye Institute estimates that over the next 30 years, the number of blind or visually impaired Americans will double. Some eye diseases have no symptoms in the early stages, when it is most critical to help slow the progression of vision loss.

One example of this type of eye disease is age-related macular degeneration:

 

Don’t forget that symptoms of vision problems aren’t always apparent so schedule your comprehensive eye exam and help prevent vision loss.

Resource:

https://nei.nih.gov/health/maculardegen/