When Was Your Dad’s Last Eye Exam? Key Reasons to Schedule One Now

When did your dad have his last eye exam? If it’s been more than a year, he should schedule an appointment right now. Here are several key reasons why eye health is very important.

Elderly Care in Laguna Woods CA: The Importance of Eye Exams

Elderly Care in Laguna Woods CA: The Importance of Eye Exams

His Ability to Drive May Be Impacted.

As your dad’s vision changes, headlights may be too bright and temporarily blind him. He may not see the sign he needs to before his turn. He may not be able to see what he needs and react in time. Vision changes can make it dangerous for your dad to operate a vehicle safely.

Glaucoma is Only Caught With a Pressure Test.

A routine vision test at the doctor’s office can check your vision, but it can’t detect common eye issues like glaucoma. To detect glaucoma, you need to have the pressure in your eyes checked. If caught early, you can prevent vision loss. If it’s caught after the vision loss begins, it can lead to permanent blindness.

Eye Exams Can Alert You to Other Health Issues.

An eye exam can alert your dad to other health issues. If the eye doctor detects damage to the retina’s blood vessels, it can be an indicator that he has type 2 diabetes. He can get to his doctor and get started on a diabetic care plan.

Some Eye and Vision Problems Are Treatable.

Catching some eye and vision problems early can stop any lasting damage. You want to have your dad’s eyes tested for issues like macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. Some are treatable when caught early.

Dry eye is one eye problem people have as they age. The amount or quality of the tears that form changes and leads to a scratching, burning sensation within the eye. Lubricating eye drops help. Untreated, dry eye may lead to an increased risk of eye infections, damage to the cornea, or a sensitivity to light that makes it hard to drive.

Worsening Vision May Lead to a Fall.

If vision is worsening, there is the chance your dad won’t see the family’s cat or dog laying on the floor. Your dad kicks or steps on the family pet and falls. That fall can lead to a broken bone, head injury, or muscle tear.

If mobility issues occur in a fall, your dad will need help with everyday chores. He’ll need help cooking a meal, taking a shower, and doing his laundry. Caregivers become necessary when the injury is severe enough.

When vision impacts the ability to drive, walk around, or get work done around the house, caregivers can help. Elderly care aides can help prepare meals, schedule appointments, and drive seniors to the medical and dental offices.

If you or an aging loved-one are considering elderly care in Laguna Woods, CA, please contact the caring staff at Easy Living Home Care today. Providing Non-Medical Home Care Services in Orange County, CA since 2009. Call for Assistance: (949) 282-5017 or (949) 842-6831

Lori LaPorte
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