Coping With Vision Loss from Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a condition that can develop unexpectedly. Because vision loss begins with peripheral vision, you may not notice any significant differences at first. However, as vision loss increases, it can impact your ability to carry out daily activities and eventually lead to tunnel vision where you only have a narrow line of sight. While there is no cure for glaucoma, early detection and treatment can help slow development and allow you to make the most of your remaining eyesight.

What causes glaucoma?

Glaucoma is generally caused by an increase of pressure within the eye that can damage the optic nerve. There is fluid that continuously flows around the eye, but when this flow is disrupted or slowed, it can lead to a buildup of pressure. Medication, eye drops, and surgery are some common forms of treatment that support better vision.

Dealing with vision loss

There are numerous ways that you can manage vision loss to continue living safely and independently.

• Stay organized. Make sure that each item in your home has its own place, and when you use these items, always put them back where they belong. This consistency and organization can help you to locate things more easily on your own, even if you have low vision. Ask that family members or visitors also return things to where they got them.
• Contrast. Creating contrast by using brightly colored tape or opposite colors can help you to differentiate between objects or see the edge of stairs, counters, or doorways.
• Magnification. Wearing glasses that magnify, or using a magnifier can help you to see print and smaller objects more clearly. You can also opt for large print books and devices to help you stay as independent as possible.
• Auditory reminders. If it becomes difficult to read fine print, use auditory reminders instead. Set alarms to remind you to take your medication and record notes for yourself instead of trying to write them down. Relying on your other senses can help to compensate for low vision.
• Be proactive. Have your vision checked regularly to monitor glaucoma progress. Ask about seeing a low vision specialist who can equip you with assistive devices or modifications that align with your vision needs. They can determine what would be most effective and how your low vision impacts your daily living.
• Ask for help. An in-home care provider can support you with daily activities such as managing medication, preparing meals, organizing mail, tidying up around the house, reading, maintaining your calendar, and more. You can opt for a few hours a week or a few hours a day depending on your level of need and ability.

Glaucoma shouldn’t stand in your way of living a life you enjoy. Contact Always Best Care of Asheville-Hendersonville to learn more about available in-home care and senior services. Call (828) 989-7263 or visit us online for more information.