Cataracts in the Elderly

Overview

Cataracts is cloudiness of the eye lens that affects vision. The lens refracts light rays that come into the eye to help us see a sharp image. When the lens is blocked there is less light that will enter the eye causing blurriness. Cataracts is developed when protein builds up in the eye lens and makes it cloudy. This keeps light from passing through clearly. This can occur in one or both eyes.

Symptoms

Cataracts often develop slowly over time. In the beginning, the cloudiness in the vision caused by a cataract may affect only a small part of the eye’s lens. As the cataract grows larger, it clouds more of the eye’s lens and distorts the light passing through the lens. This may bring on more noticeable symptoms. Symptoms of cataracts include:

Blurry or cloudy vision

Colors seems faded

Sensitivity to light and glare

Poor night vision

Double vision

Seeing “halos” around lights

Risk Factors

The risk of cataract increases with age. Other risk factors for cataract include:

Diabetes

Radiation exposure

Smoking

Drinking too much alcohol

Prolonged exposure to sunlight

Treatment

In the early stages, cataracts symptoms can be managed with new eyeglasses, brighter lighting, anti-glare sunglasses, or magnifying lenses.  Surgery may be recommended for advanced cataracts in which vision loss interferes with everyday activities, such as driving and reading. Surgery involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial lens. This is one of the most common surgeries, and it is safe and effective. When cataracts are present in both eyes, the surgery will be performed on one eye at a time.

Protect your vision

There is no guaranteed method to prevent cataracts, but there are some things you can do that may help slow cataract growth. Wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your eyes from ultraviolet sunlight. Don’t smoke, limit alcohol consumption, and keep diabetes under control. Experts recommend following a balanced, healthy diet rich in green leafy vegetables and fruit that contain antioxidants. Keep diabetes and other medical conditions in check.

Seniors should visit their eye doctor regularly for comprehensive eye exams. This can help detect cataracts and other eye problems at their earliest stages.