National Glaucoma Awareness Month: What are the Risk Factors of Glaucoma?

January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time to highlight this serious eye disease and its impact, especially on seniors. Glaucoma is a condition that damages the optic nerve, often caused by increased pressure in the eye. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss. Since the disease typically progresses slowly, many people may not realize they have it until symptoms worsen.

Understanding the risk factors and taking preventive measures is key to protecting vision, especially as we age.

5 Risk Factors of Glaucoma for Seniors

1. Age
   The risk of developing glaucoma increases as people get older, especially after the age of 60. Seniors are more likely to experience changes in eye pressure, making regular checkups critical.
2. Family History
   Genetics plays a significant role in glaucoma risk. If close relatives, such as parents or siblings, have the disease, the chances of developing it are higher.
3. Medical Conditions
   Health issues like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease are linked to an increased risk of glaucoma. Managing these conditions can help lower the likelihood of complications.
4. Ethnicity
   Certain ethnic groups, such as African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians, are at a greater risk of developing specific types of glaucoma.
5. Previous Eye Injuries or Conditions
   Past eye injuries, surgeries, or conditions such as severe nearsightedness can increase the chances of glaucoma over time.

Steps to Help Prevent Glaucoma

While glaucoma cannot always be prevented, there are steps seniors can take to reduce the risk or slow its progression:

• Regular Eye Exams: Routine eye exams are the best way to detect glaucoma early, even before symptoms appear. Seniors should have their eyes checked annually.
• Manage Health Conditions: Controlling diabetes, blood pressure, and other medical conditions helps protect eye health.
• Protect the Eyes: Wearing protective eyewear during activities can prevent injuries that may lead to glaucoma.
• Exercise Regularly: Low-impact physical activity can help improve overall health and maintain proper blood flow to the eyes.
• Take Prescribed Medications: If glaucoma has been diagnosed, following the treatment plan, including using eye drops, can help manage the condition.

How Home Care Can Support Seniors with Glaucoma

Home care can play a significant role in helping seniors manage their eye health, whether they are trying to prevent glaucoma or already living with it. Caregivers can provide valuable support by:

• Scheduling and Attending Appointments: Ensuring seniors make it to regular eye exams or follow-up visits.
• Medication Reminders: Helping seniors take prescribed eye drops and other medications on time.
• Assisting with Daily Activities: Vision loss can make tasks like cooking, cleaning, and getting dressed more challenging. Home care provides assistance to keep seniors comfortable and safe.
• Promoting Healthy Habits: Caregivers encourage seniors to stay active, eat well, and follow any doctor-recommended lifestyle changes.
• Providing Companionship and Support: Living with limited vision can be overwhelming. Having a caregiver by their side can reduce stress and help seniors maintain their independence.

At Touching Hearts Aurora, we understand the importance of promoting overall health and well-being. Our team is here to support seniors with glaucoma or other age-related conditions so they can live safely and comfortably at home.

Protecting vision is an essential part of maintaining independence and quality of life. By being aware of glaucoma risk factors and taking action, seniors can stay proactive about their eye health with the help of trusted home care services.

If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in Aurora, CO, contact the caring staff at Touching Hearts At Home Denver Metro today. Call 303-632-8786.

Touching Hearts at Home Denver Metro is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Aurora, Parker, Centennial, Castle Pines, Lone Tree, Greenwood Village, Castle Rock, Glendale, and the surrounding areas.