The most common eye conditions that are age related are:
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Central vision loss, with symptoms like blurry vision, dark spots, or distortion of straight lines.
Cataracts
Cloudy or blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, and faded or yellowish colors.
Glaucoma
Poor peripheral vision and faded colours.
Annual senior eye exams (65+) are fully covered with a valid Alberta Health Care card
Why are regular eye exams important for seniors?
Regular eye exams are essential for seniors because our eyes become more susceptible to age-related changes and health issues as we grow older. Conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy become more common with age, and these can significantly impact vision if left untreated. Early detection through regular eye exams can help prevent or slow the progression of these conditions, preserving vision and overall quality of life.
How often should seniors have their eyes examined?
Seniors should generally have a comprehensive eye exam every year. Any underlying health concerns such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol would require more frequent visits as that could increase the risk of eye diseases.
What should I expect during an eye exam?
Are there specific tests for age-related eye conditions?
Yes, there are specific tests for age-related eye conditions. For example, an Amsler Grid Test may be used to check for macular degeneration by evaluating your central vision. Tonometry measures the pressure inside your eye to screen for glaucoma, while Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scans can provide detailed images of the retina to detect early signs of glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, or macular degeneration. Your eye care provider may also conduct a visual field test to check for peripheral vision loss, common in glaucoma.