Glaucoma and macular degeneration are among the leading causes of blindness as you age. Nevertheless, both can be delayed, or even prevented, with lifestyle changes, says opthamologist. From diet and exercise to protective habits, here are simple, effective ways to keep your eyes healthier for longer.

There is something terrifying about losing your sight. Not suddenly, but gradually, often without you even realising it’s happening. That’s the reality for many older adults facing glaucoma or age-related macular degeneration (AMD). However, by making a few positive lifestyle changes now, you can protect your vision.

Ageing eyes are a fact of life. Vision starts to blur, fine print seems finer, and night driving becomes trickier. But what many don’t realise is that these changes can warn serious diseases. “Glaucoma is often called the silent thief of sight for a reason. Most people will not notice symptoms until permanent vision loss has begun. That is why early detection is key.

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, usually due to pressure building up in the eye. Macular degeneration, on the other hand, affects central vision and makes reading or recognizing faces difficult. While both have genetic risk factors, but lifestyle plays a major role. What you eat, how much you move, how you sleep, it all affects your eye health.

The best defence, she says, is a combination of regular check-ups and lifestyle tweaks. While it is easy to dismiss vision changes as ‘just getting older’, delaying action could cost you more than a pair of reading glasses.

6 lifestyle changes to help protect ageing eyes

Get regular eye exams: Early-stage glaucoma and AMD are often symptom-free. Eye tests detect issues before vision is lost. It is vital to catch these conditions early.

Eat for your vision: Antioxidants, leafy greens, and omega-3 fatty acids all help maintain retinal health.

Bonus tip: Cut out smoking, it’s the biggest lifestyle risk for AMD.

Mind the sun: UV rays can worsen macular degeneration. Good sunglasses aren’t a fashion accessory, they’re protection.

Move more, sit less: Physical activity boosts blood flow, including to the eyes. It also helps manage diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol, big risk factors for eye disease.

Limit screen time and improve lighting: Staring at screens for long hours and bad lighting, both add stress to ageing eyes. Simple eye exercises and proper lighting can reduce fatigue and strain.

Hydrate and sleep well: Eyes need moisture and rest. Dry eyes and poor sleep patterns can worsen age-related symptoms.

It’s never too late to take charge:

Eye ageing may be inevitable, but vision loss doesn’t have to be. Do not wait for symptoms. Prevention starts long before problems begin.

If you are facing problems with your vision. Get an appointment today at Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals in Garia, Kolkata with an expert (Eye Surgeon) who can check your vision properly and help you stop the damage early. Don’t Delay!