Reader Question: What are the signs that my eyesight is getting worse? Is it normal for vision to deteriorate over time even with glasses or contacts?
It’s entirely natural for our eyesight to gradually change as we get older. Just like other parts of our bodies, our eyes undergo changes over time.
Even if you’ve worn glasses or contacts for years, you may still need to get your prescription adjusted as you age. Some of the most common signs of worsening eyesight include:
- Blurry vision, either up close or far away
- Having difficulty seeing at night or in low light
- Noticing glare or halos around lights
- Needing more light to read or do close-up work
- Experiencing eye strain or headaches after reading or using a computer
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with an eye doctor. They can give you a thorough evaluation to check for underlying problems and provide recommendations for managing them.
Can you stop your eyesight from getting worse?
Even though some vision changes are a normal part of aging, that doesn’t mean you can’t do anything about it. Here are a few tips that may help:
- Get regular eye exams. Regular checkups are crucial for catching eye problems early on when they may be easier to treat.
- Protective eyewear. Wear sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays contributing to cataracts and other conditions.
- Eat a healthy diet. Foods rich in vitamins C and E, zinc, lutein, and omega-3 fatty acids benefit eye health.
- Manage chronic health conditions. Conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure can all affect your vision, so managing them can help prevent eye problems.
- Avoid smoking. Smoking and tobacco use can increase your risk for cataracts, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and other eye problems.
Overall, it’s possible to preserve your vision by being proactive about eye care and making healthy lifestyle choices.
