What Young Adults Can Do To Prevent Vision Loss Later in Life

Eye diseases can affect anyone of any age. However, the risk of developing several types of eye diseases increases as we age. Your lifestyle can play a significant role in lowering or increasing your risk of developing an eye disease.

It is common to take good vision for granted as a young adult. In fact, people of all ages may not think about their eyesight until a problem arises. However, lifestyle choices in your 20s, 30s, and 40s often impact your risk of eye diseases and vision problems later in life.

There are several things you can do as a young adult to proactively protect your vision. Consider the tips below.
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Ask about your family history

If you do not know about your family’s medical history, including vision issues, now is the time to ask. According to Research to Prevent Blindness, there are over 360 heredity eye diseases. A family history of an eye disease does not necessarily mean you will develop one, but being aware of it can help you know your risk and allow you to take additional steps, such as getting an eye exam at a young age. 

Wear sunglasses

Long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation can damage the lens and cornea of the eye. Over time, it can raise your risk of developing eye conditions, such as cataracts. Too much unprotected sun exposure contributes to premature wrinkles and lines around your eyes. You might not see wrinkles in your 20s or 30s, but they will catch up with you in mid-life. Be sure to wear sunglasses that provide 100 percent UV protection all year long. 

Maintain a healthy weight 

Being overweight as a young adult increases your chances of having a weight problem when you hit middle age. Being overweight may also increase your risk of developing certain eye diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy. While you can lose weight at any age, the sooner you get a handle on your weight the better. 

Do not smoke

The damage from smoking cigarettes is cumulative. The longer you smoke, the greater the risk of damaging the blood vessels in your eyes. Smoking increases your risk of dry eyes. However, it can also raise the chances of developing more serious eye problems, such as macular degeneration and cataracts.
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If you do not smoke, don’t start. If you are a smoker, talk with your doctor about options to help you break the habit. 

Wear appropriate eye protection 

Eye injuries when you are young can increase your risk of developing certain problems with your eyes later in life. Wear appropriate eye protection for sports and also on the job. 

Learn about normal eye changes with age

Some changes to vision as you hit middle age will likely happen. However, vision loss is not a normal part of aging. If you develop problems with vision, do not assume it is just “normal” aging. It is best to see an eye doctor to determine any vision changes. Treatment for an eye disease in its earliest stages may help preserve vision. 

Have regular eye exams

It is also important to have eye exams regularly. The frequency of your eye exams and when you start may depend on your individual circumstances. 

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, young adults that have the following conditions should not wait until 40 to have an eye exam:

• Diabetes
• Family history of eye disease
• High blood pressure

If you have any questions, we are happy to help. Also, if would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.