According to the National Eye Institute, more than 23 million U.S. adults have never had an eye exam, many because they don’t believe they have a problem. But that can be a dangerous assumption. Most serious eye conditions develop slowly and without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. By the time vision changes become obvious, irreversible damage may already be done.
As we observe Healthy Vision Month, it’s a good time to understand how aging affects your eyes and why routine exams matter, especially after age 60. Conditions like cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration are all common causes of vision loss in older adults, but early detection and treatment can help protect your sight.
Cataracts cause the eye’s clear lens to become cloudy, which affects how light passes through and ultimately how you see. They often begin forming in your 40s or 50s but can go unnoticed until they start interfering with daily activities.
Symptoms may include blurry vision, trouble with night driving, glare or halos around lights and colors that appear faded. Thankfully, cataract surgery is one of the safest and most effective procedures available today. Modern options like laser cataract surgery offer greater precision and faster recovery, helping patients return to clear, vibrant vision.
Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it causes gradual damage to the optic nerve, usually without pain or warning signs. Left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss or blindness.
That’s why glaucoma screenings are so important. If diagnosed early, it can be managed with prescription eye drops, laser procedures or, in some cases, surgery. Newer options like Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) offer a safe and effective way to lower eye pressure and help preserve vision.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in people over 60. It affects the macula — the part of your retina responsible for sharp, central vision — and can make everyday tasks like reading or recognizing faces more difficult.
There are two types: dry AMD, which progresses slowly, and wet AMD, which involves abnormal blood vessel growth and can cause rapid vision loss. While there’s no cure, treatments like anti-VEGF injections and specific eye vitamins can help slow progression when caught early.
Take Action with Preventative Care
Eye diseases don’t always come with warning signs, which is why regular comprehensive exams are your best defense. Early detection gives you more options and better outcomes when it comes to protecting your sight.
At Florida Eye Specialists, we recommend that adults over 60 receive a dilated eye exam at least every two years. Your vision plays a major role in your independence, safety and quality of life. Don’t wait until something feels wrong; make your eye health a priority now.
If you’re due for an exam or have questions about your vision, we’re here to help. Call our Ponte Vedra Beach office at 904-564-2020 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. McGregor N. Lott, M.D., is an ophthalmologist at Florida Eye Specialists. For more information on Dr. Lott or to schedule a virtual appointment, go to FloridaEyeSpecialists.com.
