Some vision changes with age are normal. Most people find it harder to read small print up close after their 40s, need more light to see well, and take longer to adjust to glare or darkness. But several serious eye diseases also become more common after 60, and many of them give no warning signs until vision is already affected.
Eye conditions to know about
Cataracts. A clouding of the eye's lens that makes vision blurry or dim and colors look faded. Cataract surgery is common and effective, and Medicare covers it.
Glaucoma. A group of diseases that damage the optic nerve, often with no symptoms at first. Side vision is usually lost first. Treatment can slow or stop further loss.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Affects the center of your vision, making it hard to read, drive or see faces. Some forms can be treated to slow vision loss.
Diabetic retinopathy. Damage to blood vessels in the retina in people with diabetes. Good control of blood sugar and blood pressure, plus regular exams, helps protect vision.
Dry eye. Common and uncomfortable, with burning, grittiness or watery eyes. Often treatable with drops and simple changes.
Why a dilated eye exam matters
In a dilated eye exam, the eye doctor puts drops in your eyes to widen your pupils. This lets them see the back of your eye and check for problems that are invisible from the outside. It is the best way to find glaucoma, AMD and diabetic eye disease early.
Ask your eye doctor how often you need an exam. Many people over 60 are advised to have one every 1 to 2 years, and people with diabetes or a family history of eye disease may need them more often. Plan for blurry, light-sensitive vision for a few hours after dilation, and bring sunglasses and a driver.
Everyday habits that support eye health
- Do not smoke. Smoking raises the risk of cataracts and AMD.
- Wear sunglasses that block UV rays, and a hat with a brim outdoors.
- Manage diabetes and blood pressure, which protect the blood vessels in your eyes.
- Eat plenty of leafy greens and colorful vegetables, and fish, as part of a healthy diet.
- Use good lighting for reading and hobbies, and reduce glare.
- Rest your eyes during screen time: every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Know your family history of eye disease and share it with your eye doctor.
Paying for eye care
Original Medicare does not cover routine eye exams for glasses, but it does cover a yearly exam for diabetic retinopathy if you have diabetes, glaucoma tests for people at high risk, and cataract surgery. Many Medicare Advantage plans include some routine vision benefits. Read does Medicare cover dental, vision and hearing care?
Living well with low vision
If your vision cannot be fully corrected with glasses, ask about a low-vision specialist. They can recommend magnifiers, special lighting and other tools, and vision rehabilitation services can help you keep doing the things you enjoy.
