Diabetic Retinopathy Self-Care: Vision Tips for Seniors
In the U.S., about 97.6 million adults aged 18-64 years and 27.2 million adults aged 65 or older have prediabetes, according to the American Heart Association. Many people with Type 2 diabetes don't even know they have it.
This makes diabetic retinopathy self-care very important for protecting senior vision in Athens, TN.
When you take care of your eyes every day, you lower the chances of serious problems. Seniors with diabetes can learn simple ways to protect their eyesight. With the habits discussed below and the right support, you can protect your vision and stay healthy for years to come.
Control Blood Sugar Daily
Keeping your blood sugar level steady is one of the best ways to protect your eyes. High blood sugar levels can weaken or damage the blood vessels in the eyes. This damage leads to diabetic retinopathy and may cause vision loss over time.
Managing blood sugar also supports your overall health. It helps prevent other diabetes and vision complications. Seniors in assisted living communities often get help with managing their sugar levels.
Eating regular meals, following a care plan, and staying active can make a big difference. Staff and nurses can monitor health changes and offer support. All of this helps keep blood sugar in check.
Get Regular Eye Exams
By the age of 75, nearly one in three Americans develops some form of age-related macular degeneration. This is according to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation. That's why getting eye exams on a regular basis is key.
Routine checkups help catch small changes before they become big problems. Sometimes, early signs of damage don't cause symptoms. Eye specialists use special tools to spot these changes early.
Seniors who get regular exams can take steps right away to protect their vision.
Eat a Healthy and Balanced Diet
What you eat has a big impact on your eye health. Leafy greens, fish, and whole grains contain nutrients that protect vision. These foods also help keep your blood sugar steady.
People with diabetes often need more guidance on healthy eating. A study found that better education helped improve outcomes. Communities like TerraBella Athens offer this support, along with memory care vision support, through wellness programs and healthy meals.
The right diet makes diabetic retinopathy self-care easier. Residents learn what foods help their eyes and how to make smart choices. Eating well also gives them more energy and confidence each day.
Some vitamins and minerals, including zinc and vitamins C and E, are especially helpful for eye health. These nutrients support the eyes' natural defenses and may slow the progress of vision problems. Staff can help residents choose foods rich in these nutrients or suggest safe supplements when needed.
Take Prescribed Medications as Directed
Healthcare providers may prescribe medicine to help manage diabetes and protect your eyes. Taking the right dose at the right time is very important. It helps keep sugar levels steady and prevents extra strain on the eyes.
Assisted living staff can remind residents to take their medications. They also keep track of any changes in health. This helps residents stay on top of their treatment plans.
Some medications work better when taken with food. Others need water, and a few should be taken at the same time daily. Either way, here are a few eye health tips for seniors for making sure medication helps and doesn't cause harm:
- Follow the timing instructions exactly
- Keep a list of all your medications and dosages
- Seek support if you notice side effects
- Never stop or change a medication without expert advice
Following the prescription can slow down or even stop the progression of diabetic retinopathy. This keeps your vision clear for longer. It's a small habit that makes a big difference.
Protect Your Eyes From the Sun
Sunlight can make eye problems worse, especially in seniors with diabetes. Wearing sunglasses with UV protection is a simple way to avoid more damage. It also keeps your eyes more comfortable outdoors.
Hats with wide brims can add even more protection. Choosing the right gear helps protect your long-term vision.
Staff can remind residents to wear sunglasses when they go outside. This builds healthy senior wellness habits. Protecting your eyes from sunlight is another easy part of diabetic retinopathy self-care.
Excess sun exposure can also cause dry eyes, which may cause discomfort or blurry vision. Dryness makes it harder to notice early changes linked to diabetic eye disease. Using sun-safe habits helps keep eyes both protected and comfortable throughout the day.
Stay Active and Maintain a Healthy Weight
Exercise doesn't just help your muscles and heart; it helps your eyes, too. Staying active improves blood flow to the eyes and helps regulate blood sugar. This makes managing eye conditions and diabetes easier.
Even light walking or chair exercises can be helpful. Seniors at TerraBella Athens enjoy fitness classes and gentle movements. These programs are both fun and good for your health.
Keeping a healthy, sustainable weight also lowers the risk of eye damage. The staff helps residents stay active at a safe and comfortable level.
Watch for Warning Signs
Changes in vision should never be ignored. The last thing anyone wants is to lose vision without warning. As such, look out for these common signs:
- Blurry or hazy vision
- Dark spots or floaters
- Trouble seeing at night
- Sudden vision changes
Reporting these symptoms early can help stop more damage. Seniors might not always notice these signs at first, and that's why it's helpful to check in regularly with staff or family. They can help monitor changes and act quickly.
Protect Your Eyes With Diabetic Retinopathy Self-Care Today
Diabetic retinopathy self-care is easier with the right support. Seniors benefit from healthy meals, daily routines, and regular eye checkups. These simple steps can help protect vision and prevent serious problems.
If you're looking for a senior living community in Athens, TN, TerraBella Athens is ready to support you. Nestled in the tranquil Great Smoky Mountains, we offer thoughtful care plans that make diabetic self-care simple and stress-free. Schedule a tour to see how we help protect your health and independence.