With age, we all notice subtle changes in our vision. Most of these changes are normal and can be rectified with corrective lenses. If you notice spots, double vision, a decrease in side vision, painful redness, colors around lights, or blurring, please mention these concerns to your Doctor of Optometry. In most cases the earlier a vision problem is found, the easier it is to correct. Here are some common vision problems.

Cataracts

The most common vision problem among senior citizens is cataracts. Cataracts are an opaque film or cloudiness in the eye's lens. Symptoms to watch for are blurred or hazy vision, spots before the eye and double vision. If left untreated, cataracts can cause severe visual impairment and may even lead to blindness.

Optometric treatment can maintain your vision until surgery is required. This surgery is rather painless and involves removing the eye's lens and replacing it with a lens implant, or after surgery prescribing glasses to help restore vision.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma occurs when fluid pressure inside the eye rises above normal. This causes loss of side vision or blindness if left untreated. Around the age of 35, you should have regular eye examinations that include glaucoma testing.

Doctors of Optometry can detect glaucoma with an internal eye exam, visual field evaluation and tonometry test. If glaucoma is detected, treatment involves special eyedrops but may require surgery.

Spots and Floaters

If you are seeing particles that look like specks of material, cobwebs, or showers of brilliant crystals, you may have spots and floaters. They are usually harmless, but should be checked out by a Doctor of Optometry.

Presbyopia

If reading a newspaper, restaurant menu, or other small print is difficult, you may have presbyopia. This is a common vision change that blurs near vision beginning at about the age of 40 to 45. A Doctor of Optometry can treat it with prescription reading glasses, contact lenses or multifocal lenses.