Some vision changes become more common with age, such as needing more light or having difficulty focusing up close. Vision loss itself should not simply be dismissed as normal aging.
Conditions such as cataract, glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, and age-related macular degeneration may have few early symptoms.
Common Changes
People may notice difficulty reading small print, increased glare, slower adjustment between light and dark, color changes, dry eyes, or more trouble driving at night.
Symptoms That Need Prompt Attention
Seek urgent care for sudden vision loss, a curtain or shadow over vision, new flashes, a sudden increase in floaters, severe eye pain, eye injury, chemical exposure, sudden double vision, or painful redness with reduced vision.
Comprehensive Eye Exams
A comprehensive exam may include visual-acuity testing, pressure measurement, pupil dilation, retinal and optic-nerve examination, and assessment for correction.
The right schedule depends on age, symptoms, diabetes, family history, and previous findings.
Finding Lower-Cost Eye Care
Possible sources include community health centers, optometry schools, ophthalmology teaching clinics, Medicaid providers, Medicare-covered exams when requirements apply, state rehabilitation programs, charitable programs, and hospital assistance.
Confirm whether the service includes dilation, imaging, glasses, treatment, or only a screening.
Sources
- National Eye Institute: Vision and aging
- National Eye Institute: The aging eye
- National Eye Institute: Low vision
- National Eye Institute: Age-related macular degeneration
- HRSA: Find a Health Center
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice.