Although age-related macular degeneration is a common condition that affects people as they age, new research suggests as your vision gets worse, more years will be knocked off your life.
Failing vision linked with shorter life in seniors
It may appear obvious that the worse vision gets, the less years you may have, but researchers do offer some theories which may better link poor vision and a shorter life.
Researchers suggest that when seniors lose their vision, they also lose their ability to perform simple daily tasks. From their findings, researchers pointed out death associated with the inability to perform daily tasks increased three percent each year of the study – after eight years risk of death was up to 31 percent.
Participants whose eye exams revealed their vision declined a letter size on the eye exam chart had a 16 percent increased risk of death due to the inability to perform daily tasks.
The research team said, “Our findings have multiple implications. First, these findings reinforce the need for the primary prevention of visual impairment. Moreover, the early detection of disabling eye diseases is suboptimal in the U.S. health care system, leading to otherwise preventable vision impairment. Finally, many Americans live with vision impairment that is correctable through the proper fitting of glasses or contact lenses.”
Lastly, the findings suggest that with failing vision, seniors require further assistance in order to reduce their risk of death by inability to perform daily tasks.
How to maintain your vision
- Go for scheduled eye exams to detect any changes in vision early on.
- Ensure your vision prescriptions are up-to-date.
- Always wear sunglasses when venturing outside.
- Don’t look directly into the sun.
- Know your family history.
- Eat foods high in eye-friendly nutrients, like carrots, kale and other dark leafy greens.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Quit smoking.
- Ensure you are getting adequate sleep.
- Give your eyes a rest, especially if you stare at a screen all day.
- Ensure you are wearing and cleaning contact lenses properly.
- Protect your eyes in workplace environments by wearing protective eye gear.
- Manage your diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol.
Healthy lifestyle habits can better help you maintain your vision for the long run without the threat of a shorter life.