With 90% of people over the age of 65 suffering from cataracts, it’s important that seniors are aware of the symptoms and treatment options in advance so they are in the best position to make decisions that relate to the health of their eyes. Professional and family caregivers should also educate themselves about this serious eye condition, in order to help their loved one through the process. Will you be able to tell if you or someone you know is suffering from cataracts? Are you aware of the treatment options currently available to help cope?

• You are familiar with the signs and symptoms of cataracts, including blurred vision, double vision in one eye, spotted sight, glare and halos from light and sun, and faded colors
• If you or someone you know begins to demonstrate any of these signs, you will consult with an eye care professional
• You understand that while you may feel like eye changes are due to the aging process, it’s better to check with a professional, because serious conditions like cataracts when left untreated can result in blindness
• You are aware that there are no medications currently available to prevent the development of cataracts or reverse their affects
• You know that small changes may help improve eyesight before cataracts progress in severity; like a change of prescription eyeglasses, using a magnifying glass to read or adjusting lighting at home
• You know that the most common treatment method is Phacoemulsification surgery; an operation that involves dissolving the cataract lens for removal, which takes less than 30 minutes and involves minimal recovery time

If your loved one needs any assistance with transportation to and from appointments please contact your local Home Instead Senior Care office.

Sources: http://www.emedicinehealth.com/cataracts/article_em.htm
http://hcd2.bupa.co.uk/fact_sheets/html/catar

Nursing Home Care Greater Phoenix & Nursing Home Care Central Phoenix gives Phoenix elders and seniors an alternative to a nursing home. Call us today at 623.583.5868, 602.265.8228 or 480-991-3959.

When my father-in-law began to experience serious vision loss, it took a much greater toll on his life than we ever would have expected. While he managed to find ways to cope with his lack of sight, the emotional effects were far more damaging and through association, the rest of the family found themselves dealing with similar emotional struggles. It was hard to see a family member forced to sacrifice his independence and give up on some of the activities he enjoyed.

Once an avid card player, my father-in-law withdrew from his weekly card game night because he was self-conscious and discouraged by his vision impairment that presented additional challenges that his friends weren’t facing. Eventually, because he felt he didn’t have anyone that could relate to what he was going through, he found a local support group here in [location] for seniors coping with loss of eyesight and began to realize that all the struggles he was facing were normal and by talking over his experiences he was better able to grieve.

While we wished we could do more, our family tried to offer the encouragement and support we felt he needed. We pushed him to re-join his card night and helped him find ways to adapt to his declining vision so he could continue to enjoy his life and all his favorite activities.

Sources:

1. Web MD

2. Eldercare ABC Blog

Image: pro.corbis.com