Healthy Vision Month Tips for Seniors in Franklin, TN

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 93 million American adults have a high risk for serious vision loss. Only half have visited a doctor in the past 12 months. When caught early, however, vision loss can often be delayed or prevented.
This Healthy Vision Month, prioritize your senior eye health. Read on for our vision wellness tips for seniors living in Franklin, TN!
Senior Eye Health Nutrients
Neglecting your nutritional needs may increase your risk of developing an eye disease. This risk can further increase as you age. According to the National Library of Medicine, many older adults don't get enough essential nutrients through their diet.
Eye conditions associated with aging vision include:
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Dry eye syndrome
- Cataracts
- Macular degeneration
- Glaucoma
According to Macular Degeneration Research, nearly 20 million US adults are living with some form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD is the leading cause of irreversible blindness and vision impairment. It's the leading cause of vision loss in Americans aged 65 and older.
Your eyes require essential nutrients to function properly. These can include:
- Vitamins A, E, and C
- Lutein and zeaxanthin
- Omega-3s and Omega-6s
- Zinc
You can get these nutrients through your diet or supplements. Consult a doctor before adding new supplements to your regimen. They'll help you avoid potential interactions with medications you're taking.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A supports photoreceptors, or light-sensing cells, in the eyes. A vitamin A deficiency could increase your risk of dry eyes or night blindness.
The active form of vitamin A, retinol, is found in animal-derived foods, including egg yolks and dairy products. Plant sources that contain provitamin A carotenoids include:
- Sweet red peppers
- Collard greens
- Kale
- Spinach
- Grapefruit
- Cantaloupe
- Mango
- Carrots
If you're struggling to add foods for vision wellness to your routine, explore your senior living community's dining program. You can find nutritious, delicious, chef-prepared meals made with senior eye health in mind.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E protects the fatty acids in your eyes from oxidation. Oxidation occurs due to an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body. The retina contains a high concentration of fatty acids.
A severe deficiency could increase your risk of blindness or retinal degeneration. Food sources for vitamin E include:
- Trout
- Salmon
- Butternut squash
- Red sweet peppers
- Almonds
- Peanuts and peanut butter
- Hazelnuts
- Avocado
- Mango
Vitamin C
The layer of clear fluid in the eye is called the aqueous humor. The concentration of antioxidant vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is over 20 times higher in the aqueous humor than in blood plasma.
Fruits and vegetables that are high in vitamin C include:
- Citrus fruits
- Bell peppers
- Broccoli
- Kale
- Guavas
Vitamin C may play a protective role in senior eye health. However, we need more research to understand its potential ability to slow the progression of cataracts.
Zinc
The eyes contain high levels of zinc, which may help form the retina's visual pigments. A zinc deficiency could increase your risk of night blindness.
The Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) concluded that taking supplements containing 80 mg of zinc may reduce the risk of progression from intermediate to advanced AMD by about 25%. More research is needed, however.
Food sources of zinc include:
- Peanuts
- Meat
- Shellfish
- Legumes
- Hemp seeds
Omega-3s and Omega-6s
Omega-3 fatty acids include EPA and DHA, which may help maintain eye function. A DHA deficiency could increase your risk of impaired vision. Both EPA and DHA may help reduce dry eye symptoms.
Food sources for omega-3s include:
- Walnuts
- Chia seeds
- Fatty fish
Omega-6 fatty acids may offer anti-inflammatory benefits. Food sources for omega-6s include:
- Tofu
- Walnuts
- Hemp seeds
Make sure to maintain a proper ratio of omega-6 and omega-3s.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin
Lutein and zeaxanthin are antioxidants. They play a role in protecting the eyes from harmful blue light. Both could help reduce the risk of AMD progressing to advanced forms.
Food sources include:
- Egg yolks
- Pumpkin
- Spinach
- Lettuce
- Pistachios
- Kale
Exercise for Vision Wellness
Prioritize your overall Franklin senior health awareness by adding exercise to your routine. Aim for 150 minutes of exercise a week.
Exercising can boost the blood flow of nutrients throughout the body. It could also improve tissue healing.
Exercising helps reduce oxidative stress, which can lead to cellular damage. It helps you maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce inflammation. Otherwise, inflammation can increase your risk of eye diseases, including:
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Macular degeneration
Explore your senior living community's activities calendar for exercise classes. Exercising will boost your mood and improve your overall health.
Eye Care Tips
A few lifestyle changes can benefit your aging vision and overall health. Here are a few eye care tips to apply while living in Franklin, TN.
Quit Smoking
Smoking may increase your risk of health issues, including:
- Macular degeneration
- Optic nerve damage
- Cataracts
If you're struggling to quit, consult your doctor. Otherwise, try to replace smoking with a positive habit, such as exercising or meditation.
Wear Sunglasses
Grab your favorite pair of sunglasses each time you step outside. Choose a pair that:
- Blocks both UV-A and UV-B rays
- Offers UV400 protection
- Blocks 100% of UV rays
Excessive UV exposure could increase your risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. Not wearing glasses could strain your eyes, while squinting can increase wrinkle formation.
Protect Your Eyes
When using your phone, computer, or tablet, consider wearing blue light glasses. These devices emit blue light, which can damage cells in the eyes.
Franking Senior Health Awareness
Take care of your eye health by visiting your eye doctor regularly. They can screen you for glaucoma and provide personalized recommendations for improved eye health.
Celebrate Healthy Vision Month
Don't neglect your senior eye health this year. Instead, observe Healthy Vision Month by making a change for the better. Apply these eye care tips every day!
Remember, you can find more helpful resources through your local senior living community. Look no further than Manor at Steeplechase. Our senior living community offers Independent Living with Supportive Services to provide a maintenance-free lifestyle with added convenience.
You can depend on our exclusive senior lifestyle programs for chef-prepared meals, engaging activities, and more. Make the most of your retirement with a balance between independence and support. Contact us now to schedule your tour.