February 20, 2020

How your vision changes as you age

By: Kady

One of the most common causes of vision loss for people aged 50 and over is Age-Related Macular Degeneration. The macula, a small spot near the centre of the retina, begins to degrade and the ability to see objects in sharp focus begins to decline.

AMD can progress slowly or quickly – sometimes going unnoticed for long periods of time in the beginning. Factors that can speed up the progression of AMD include:

Smoking
Your risk of age-related macular degeneration nearly doubles if you are a smoker.
Race
Caucasian people are more likely than any other race to develop AMD.
Family history
Genetic factors can make you more or less likely to develop AMD.
Diet and exercise
Staying active and maintaining a healthy diet can lower your risk.
Blood pressure and cholesterol
Monitor these levels with your family doctor.

Thankfully, there is a way to detect Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Although symptoms can be nearly undetectable in early stages, getting regular comprehensive eye exams from your optometrist can catch it early. Getting regular exams can also help determine the rate at which the condition is progressing.

Coping with AMD can be hard, but your optometrist is here to help. Reading glasses, specialized lenses, magnifiers, large-print, and audible devices can help ensure your quality of life isn’t compromised more than it needs to be.

Your Beyond Vision eye care team is here to help. If you have any questions or concerns about your vision, don’t hesitate to make an appointment or give us a call. You can make an appointment easily online.
<
>

Edmonton & Leduc Locations

Please visit one of our locations in Edmonton, Alberta. Our friendly team of staff and doctors are happy to assist you.

Millwoods

5615 23 Avenue NW
Edmonton T6L 7B9
T. (780) 450-6700
F. (780) 441-9461

Oxford Park Landing

15158 127 Street NW
Edmonton T6V 0C5
T. (780) 705-8816
F. (780) 705-8856

Terwillegar

14217 23 Avenue NW
Edmonton T6R 3E7
T. (780) 432-4301
F. (780) 432-4460

Leduc

107 4809 43A Avenue
Leduc T9E 8J6
T. (780) 612-4556
F. (780) 612-4558

Grange

2500 Guardian Road NW
Edmonton T5T 1K8
T. (780) 447-5860
F. (780) 447-5862