When Do You Need Reading Glasses? Signs for Seniors
If you've had perfect vision for your entire life, you may be shocked to learn that your vision can start to deteriorate as you age. The time to focus on your senior eye health is now.
Presbyopia is one of the most common eye conditions affecting seniors in Shelbyville, IN. With presbyopia, you may encounter reading difficulty as one of the primary symptoms.
When do you need reading glasses? The answer may not be as clear-cut as you would expect. Read on to learn more about vision and aging, and Shelbyville wellness tips for how to navigate these changes.
What Is Presbyopia?
Presbyopia is a condition that occurs when your lens begins to lose flexibility. As you age, the reduced level of flexibility makes it more difficult to focus, leading to blurred vision.
Presbyopia affects almost everyone, which is why it is so common to see reading glasses in:
- Big box stores
- Convenience stores
- Drugstores and pharmacies
Treatment for presbyopia includes:
- Traditional eyeglasses
- Contact lenses
- Vision correcting surgery, in some cases
When Do You Need Reading Glasses?
Reading glasses are the most common treatment for presbyopia. Some of the key benefits of reading glasses include:
- They are easily accessible, available at many different retailers.
- They are affordable, so you can keep multiple pairs and replace lost or stolen pairs.
- They are easy to use, so there is no barrier to entry when incorporating them into your everyday life.
Below, you'll learn about some signs that you may need reading glasses.
You Gravitate Toward Larger Print
Wanting to read text with larger print isn't a negative thing in itself. It may be easier on your eyes, rather than struggling to absorb fine print when you don't need to.
However, you should evaluate whether you want to read larger print due to preference or necessity. Try testing your vision with a smaller font and see if you struggle.
You're Considering a Visit to the Optometrist
It's important to visit the optometrist if you have preexisting conditions or a family history of eye problems. If your vision problems have you wondering about a trip to the eye doctor, listen to your gut and schedule an appointment.
For new visitors, you will likely have to fill out pre-visit forms, where you will list things such as:
- Medical conditions
- Medications
- Medical insurance
- Vision insurance
- Family history of eye problems
A standard vision exam typically includes the following:
- A visual acuity test
- Eye function tests
- A retinal health examination
- Tests for other eye conditions, as needed
The cost of the exam depends on whether you have vision insurance. With insurance coverage, you may need a copay, but without it, you will likely have to pay out of pocket.
If you are a veteran, check with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to see if you qualify for vision coverage. You may be able to get the care you need for free or at a lower cost than standard vision insurance plans.
You Need More Light to See
Although it is not ideal to read in low light, your eyes should be able to compensate, to a degree. Overhead light should be adequate for most readers.
However, if you have noticed that you need brighter, more direct light to read your material, you may be suffering from presbyopia.
You Find Yourself Squinting
When you cannot see properly up close, squinting can relieve some symptoms. As you squint, your eyes have a narrower field of view, making it easier to focus. Your eyes will not have to compensate as much to correct your vision.
Your Eyes Get Tired Easily
When you struggle to see up close, you will tire out your eyes more quickly. Have you noticed yourself getting exhausted while reading?
As your vision worsens, your body will take steps on its own to try to compensate for the loss. This uses up more energy, which, in turn, drains energy reserves from other areas.
You Hold Reading Material Further Away
When you have presbyopia, holding reading material further away may make it easier to read. Your eyes won't have to do as much work to focus, meaning even if the print is smaller from further away, it will be more easily digestible.
Pay attention to how far away your reading material is from your face. If you find yourself holding it further away than expected, try bringing it closer and see if your vision changes. You'll be able to tell right away if you have reading difficulty.
You Get Frequent Headaches
Similar to tiring out easily, your eyes working excessively can manifest in painful, frequent headaches. Headaches often occur when doing work that is on a screen, such as a:
- Computer
- Tablet
- Smartphone
Use over-the-counter pain relievers such as Ibuprofen and Tylenol for a temporary solution. Headache caps are also a good way to alleviate symptoms without the assistance of medication.
Pay attention to when the headache symptoms manifest. If they occur while doing tasks that involve excessive eye use, then the cause is likely related to presbyopia.
You Suffer From Dry Eyes
Dry eyes can range from itchy and irritating to painful and debilitating. Despite their prevalence, they can be frustrating to deal with and often signal larger issues.
Dry eyes and presbyopia are not directly related, but they can certainly worsen each other's symptoms. For instance, if your eyes are already strained from squinting, dry eye symptoms can exacerbate the problem.
Navigate Eyesight Changes and More at Walker Place
Aging and vision don't have to be complex when you have the right resources. So, when do you need reading glasses? Ultimately, the answer depends on you, your care team, and a qualified eye doctor.
At Walker Place Assisted Living Community, we put the needs of our residents first. Our caring, supportive staff are here to help with everyday tasks and more intensive memory care. Amenities such as a plethora of activities and pet accommodations mean you'll be taken care of in every aspect of your life.
Are you ready to make the transition to assisted living or memory care? Reach out to us today to learn more. We can't wait to meet you!