2020 has been a tough year, no doubt. Even still, across the world, people are living longer and healthier lives than ever before. And no matter how well (or not well) your year has gone so far, this month offers a chance for a renewed focus.
September is Healthy Aging Month. It’s a great time to focus on our senior population as it pertains to staying fit, staying active, staying safe and staying healthy. Here at Eye Medical Clinic, we are crazy about our senior patients and we are a trusted resource for all the eye-related issues that accompany aging.
Healthy Vision is a Priority in Every Season, But Especially as You Age
Something to know: vision loss isn’t a normal part of aging. That said, older individuals are at higher risk for certain eye diseases and conditions. Things like age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and dry eye, just to name a few. Some of these conditions have no early symptoms, but they are easily detected during a comprehensive eye exam (something you should have annually!).
Healthy Eyes for a Healthy Life
More than 40 million Americans are currently age 65 or older, and this number is expected to grow to more than 88 million by 2050. That’s a lot of seniors! By that same year, the number of Americans with age-related eye diseases is expected to double, and the number of people living with low vision is projected to triple. Early detection and treatment are key to saving sight.
If you have celebrated 50 (or more!) birthdays, here’s a tip. Come see us annually for a comprehensive eye exam. Having a dilated eye exam every year can help detect age-related eye diseases in their earliest stages. Early detection and treatment can help preserve your sight. Even if you are not experiencing vision problems, you should still take time for an annual eye exam. This is one of the best things you can do to make sure your one set of eyes stays healthy for a lifetime. And we’ll even sing happy birthday to you if you’d like!
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
People over the age of 50 are also at higher risk for developing Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). This condition happens when a part of the retina called the macula is damaged. With AMD, you lose your central vision but your peripheral (side) vision will still be normal.
Did you know we have a fellowship-trained retina specialist on the team here at EMC? Well, we do! Dr. Tamer Hadi is our resident expert on all things retina related. If you haven’t met him, you should!
Life Beyond the Blur
Cataracts are the most common cause of vision loss in people over the age of 50. According to Prevent Blindness America, cataracts currently affect more than 22 million Americans. Important to know, cataracts cannot be treated with medication or changes to your lifestyle and diet. They must be surgically removed in order for vision to be restored. When cataracts begin to negatively affect your lifestyle and the activities you enjoy, it’s time to talk to an expert.
At Eye Medical Clinic, we offer the latest technologies and techniques in cataract surgery, including Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery. Major advances in lens exchange procedures allow people just like you to continue to live their lives the way they want to live them. At Eye Medical Clinic, we offer a variety of Premium Lens Implants that can correct your cataracts AND reduce your dependency on glasses, bifocals and even readers.
Healthy Aging Month is the ideal time to schedule a cataract evaluation. If you haven’t met our Premium Lens Cataract Surgery, Dr. Jeanie Paik, you’re going to want to! She has the experience and the expertise to help you achieve restored and even improved vision. Take control of your health (including your eyes!). Whatever the rest of 2020 looks like, See Every Moment.
Eye Medical Clinic has built a reputation for quality eye care that generations of families have come to trust. We invite you to experience the VIP treatment every patient can expect to receive at Eye Medical Clinic. Our team of experienced doctors, as well as a highly trained staff, is dedicated to helping you enjoy your life to the fullest…with the clear vision you deserve.
