Keeping Healthy Vision as We Age

Posted on August 19, 2020 in Vision Health

*Updated March 2026

Key takeaways about keeping vision healthy as we age:

• Eye exams detect vision issues and overall health problems like diabetes and heart disease, often before you notice symptoms.
• Watch for vision changes including blurry vision, eye pain, flashes of light, floaters, redness, or swelling that shouldn’t be ignored.
• Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses, eating well, staying active, managing health conditions, and taking screen breaks.

You’ve probably heard the saying “the eyes are the windows to the soul,” but they’re also a window to our overall health. Changes in your vision can be an early sign of eye diseases or broader health concerns. Understanding what vision changes to expect as you age is important for your sight and long-term well-being.

Why regular vision exams matter

Regular exams with an eye doctor can help diagnose vision-related issues such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and more. Many times, a doctor can spot symptoms of these issues before you do. An eye doctor can also help diagnose other health issues, such as heart disease or diabetes.

Vision changes to tell your doctor about:

• Blurry or weakened vision
• Double vision
• Redness or swelling
• Flashes of light
• Eye pain
• New floaters
• Tearing
• Eyelid swelling or itching

Don’t wait for symptoms to get worse before you schedule an exam. If you notice any of these changes in your vision, it’s time to visit your eye doctor. Remember, many vision issues, such as glaucoma, can be diagnosed without symptoms making it more important to visit the eye doctor regularly.

Everyday habits that help protect your eyes

Visiting the eye doctor regularly is a great habit, but what you do between visits matters too. Here are some easy ways to protect your eye health every day:

• Wear sunglasses outside to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays
• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats to support eye health
• Stay active and manage conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, which can affect your vision
• Stop smoking as it increases the risk of serious eye diseases
• Take breaks from screens using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain

Prioritize your vision health today

Clear vision is an essential part of your quality of life and overall health. By scheduling regular eye exams, watching for warning signs, and practicing healthy habits daily, you can protect your vision for years to come. Don't wait for symptoms to appear. Take proactive steps now to keep your eyes and body healthy as you age.

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We partner with popular providers like LensCrafters® and Target Optical℠, in addition to many smaller, independent doctors. These retailers offer conveniences such as multiple locations and extended hours to help members get the service they need when they need it.

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