Not only does ageing contribute to vision problems such as presbyopia, it also increases risk for eye health problems.

What eye problems are associated with ageing?

Age increases risk for many eye diseases and conditions, including:

  • Age-related macular degeneration

Based on research by Singapore Eye Research Institute in 2009, age-related macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of blindness in people over 50 years of age.

Glaucoma is the cause of about 40% of blindness in Singapore. Based on research by Singapore Eye Research Institute in 2009, around 3% of people above 50 years old have glaucoma, while this figure is higher at 10% for those above 70 years of age.

Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide.

  • Retinal detachment

Those over the age of 40 are at higher risk of retinal detachment.

Normal, harmless floaters are often caused by age-related changes to the vitreous fluid in our eyes. Sudden onset of or increase in floaters can be indicative or retinal detachment.

As we age, our tear production decreases, resulting in dry eyes.

How to counter age-related eye problems

Comprehensive eye exams should be taken every 1-2 years for people 40-64 years old and annually for those 65 years old and above. If you have other risk factors for eye diseases, such as diabetes or family history of eye diseases, you should get a comprehensive eye exam more often.

This allows your optometrist/ophthalmologist to monitor your eye health and detect any eye diseases early. Early detection of eye diseases is important in treating the condition before it has irreversible consequences or results in blindness.

Have not had a comprehensive eye exam in the past year?


Sources:

  • https://www.singhealth.com.sg/patient-care/patient-education/age-related-macular-degeneration
  • https://www.singhealth.com.sg/patient-care/patient-education/glaucoma
  • https://www.singhealth.com.sg/patient-care/patient-education/retinal-detachment
  • https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2020/age-related-eye-issues.html