Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is the breakdown of the macula, which is the region of the eye with the greatest visual acuity. This breakdown causes central vision to blur, making reading, driving, and sewing difficult. Because ARMD is a common disease in the elderly, there are several things you should know to help your aging loved one prevent or delay the onset of the disease.
ARMD Can Develop Slowly or Rapidly
In some seniors, the disease develops so slowly that symptoms aren’t noticed for a long time. In others, the disease can progress rapidly, causing loss of vision in one or both eyes.
Seniors with severe vision impairment may need assistance to be able to continue living at home. For some families, caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times. Luckily, they can rely on professional respite care. Oshkosh, WI, Senior Stride Home Care is a trusted name in respite and hourly care. Our caregivers are available around the clock to assist seniors with bathing, transportation, medication reminders, exercise, and much more, allowing families the time they need to focus on other important responsibilities or just take a break.
Early Detection Is Critical
Because early symptoms sometimes go unnoticed, it’s important for your loved one to have regular eye examinations. Schedule an appointment for your parent as soon as possible if he or she is experiencing any of the following issues with his or her vision:
- Blurriness
- Dark areas
- Blank spots
- Distorted images
Though there’s no cure for early ARMD, lifestyle changes can be made that may prevent the disease from advancing. Additionally, your loved one’s doctor may recommend more frequent eye exams to check on the progression of the disease.
As ARMD progresses, your loved one’s doctor may recommend supplements to slow the progression. The disease can also be treated with injections, photodynamic therapy, and laser surgery.
If your loved one is living with vision problems and needs assistance with daily tasks, help is available. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality senior home care. Trust Senior Stride Home Care to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.
Lifestyle Changes Can Prevent or Delay AMD
Genetics have been found to play a role in developing ARMD. People over the age of 50 are also at higher risk if they:
- Smoke
- Get little or no exercise
- Eat an unhealthy diet
A recent study conducted by the National Eye Institute found those with family histories of the disease were less likely to develop it when they made healthy lifestyle changes.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional elderly home care. Oshkosh families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. We will work with you to create a customized home care plan that’s suited for your loved one’s unique needs. Call the Senior Stride Home Care team at 920-717-1767 today.