How to Protect Your Vision as You Get Older

Do you take your eyesight for granted? Good vision is a necessity for many parts of your life. From working and learning to enjoying everyday pleasures, being able to see clearly makes a big difference. As you get older, failing to take good care of your eyesight could make your eyes fall into a gradual state of decline. Fortunately, there are ways to make poor eyesight less likely.

Protect Your Macula with Your Diet

Your macula is the area of your eye that contains the cells that receive images and pass them along to your brain. If you want to protect it, you can start with your diet.

Eating plenty of omega-3 fatty acids from foods such as salmon and flaxseeds is a great place to start. Additionally, you can reduce the number of free radicals you produce by cutting down on alcohol and eating plenty of fruit and vegetables. Finally, try to avoid too much sugar and triglycerides, as both can gradually narrow the blood vessels that serve your macula.

Ditch Toxins with Exercise

When you exercise, you probably do so to lose weight and protect your heart. A welcome side effect of regular exercise is that you make it easier for oxygen to flood around your body.

Your eyes will see the benefit of better oxygen delivery. Although you can't prevent them from coming into contact with toxins altogether, you can use oxygen to diminish the effects of toxic compounds.

Use Regular Eye Testing

Whether you currently suffer from visual problems or not, it's important to attend eye tests regularly. Try going for a test every two years. If you're already under the care of an optometrist or ophthalmologist, they'll advise you on using more appropriate intervals.

You should also use eye testing when you suspect there's a problem with your vision. By responding quickly, you could prevent such problems from getting worse.

Banish UV Rays with Sunglasses

Wearing a decent pair of sunglasses prevents too many UVA and UVB rays from entering your eyes and increasing your risk of cataracts. It's important to know that not all sunglasses offer UV protection. Some are there for cosmetic purposes only, so shop around until you find glasses that do offer protection.

From regular eye testing to living a healthier lifestyle, there are lots of ways to protect your vision as you get older. In addition to experiencing eye health benefits, you'll see changes in the rest of your body, too.