How Glaucoma Can Affect Your Senior’s Life

January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month and a time to refresh your knowledge about the impact that glaucoma can have on health and quality of life. There is currently no cure for glaucoma, but there are treatments available to help protect remaining vision and slow progression of the disease

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Glaucoma results from an increase in pressure in the eye that causes damage to the optic nerve. This pressure can be triggered by poor fluid circulation and drainage in the eye. Treatment aims to reduce and stabilize pressure, decrease fluid production, or reroute the flow of fluid for better drainage.

Damage to the optic nerve can impair peripheral vision and, over time, eventually affect central vision as well. Without clear peripheral vision seniors may feel as though they are looking through a tunnel. This can have a negative impact on activities of daily living as well as safety and socialization.

Difficulty driving: Not being able to quickly see what is approaching from the side can make driving more dangerous. Seniors may be slower to react to hazardous situations and at increased risk of getting in an accident.

Balance problems: Glaucoma can make it more difficult to maintain steady balance as well. Seniors may have trouble navigating stairs, narrow spaces, or cluttered areas. They may bump into things more frequently or trip and stumble. This can increase their fear of falling and make them more cautious when moving about. They may need to use assistive devices or hold on to handrails to feel more secure.

Problems reading: It can become more challenging to absorb information and take in material when reading as vision becomes more limited. Sensitivity to light can also affect their ability to see and interpret words. This can also make it more difficult to enjoy puzzle books, read and respond to mail or email, complete paperwork, read instructions, or read for enjoyment.

Decreased socialization: The combination of these things can reduce socialization and leave seniors feeling more isolated. They may be hesitant to get out and about because they can’t navigate as well both walking and driving, and may not be able to enjoy themselves fully because of lack of vision. Fear of further visual impairment or eventual blindness can also take a toll on mental health and lead to depression or anxiety.

All of these things can impact quality of life for seniors. Early detection is key to help preserve as much eyesight as possible and slow progression of the disease. Regular eye exams can aid in detecting changes in vision and risk factors for glaucoma and other diseases. For those who do have glaucoma or other vision problems, an in-home caregiver or assisted living facility can offer necessary support and safety. Making simple modifications around the home and to normal routines can help to accommodate for vision changes and enhance quality of life. Being proactive and getting help early can help support continued independence and protect vision.