Ageing and your eyes

Most cataracts are caused by changes in the eye due to ageing (Source: RNIB). Over time, the protein in the lens of the eye can break down, causing clouding and low vision. However, cataracts are not just an old-age eye problem and can occur in children and young adults too. Symptoms of cataracts include light sensitivity, blurred vision and double vision.

Glaucoma occurs when the fluid within the eye fails to drain properly and causes increased pressure that damages the optic nerve. Symptoms include blurred vision, blind spots and eventually tunnel vision. Glaucoma is more common in people over 60, and symptoms can be gradual and go unnoticed in the early stages.

Eye pressure is measured using a process called tonometry. An optometrist numbs the eye with eye drops before using a tonometer, a small device placed onto the eye’s surface to measure the pressure within the eye. As we age eye pressure tends to increase (Source: NIH).

An eye pressure of between 10 and 21mmHg is considered normal. Your ophthalmologist will decide on your normal eye pressure range by age, general eye health and medical history.

An eye pressure of 22mmHg or above is considered high and requires close monitoring. Increased eye pressure is the main risk factor for glaucoma, so timely detection and treatment are vital.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) typically affects people aged 55 and over and is a common cause of vision loss for ageing eyes. The macula, a part of the eye used for central vision, becomes thinner over time, causing vision changes. Age-related macular degeneration is progressive, meaning that it gets worse over time. Taking vitamin supplements (Source: RNIB), avoiding high cholesterol (Source: NIH) and reducing exposure to ultraviolet light can help slow AMD progression (Source: Eye & Contact Lens).

High blood sugars from diabetes affect the delicate blood vessels at the back of the eye, causing damage and permanent vision loss in a condition called diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness in adults aged 20-74 years (Source: Eye and Vision). People with diabetes can experience eye problems at any age, but the risk increases over time as damage to the eye builds up. High blood glucose levels, pregnancy and high blood pressure, can all accelerate disease progression.

As we age, changes in the jelly-like vitreous fluid within the eye can affect the retina, causing it to loosen and detach (Source: Frontiers). Symptoms include vision changes, such as seeing dots, a shadow across the vision or lines. A detached retina needs urgent attention, so if you experience any of these symptoms, contact your ophthalmologist immediately to avoid permanent damage to sight.

Dry eyes are very common as we age, and some people over 65 experience symptoms including redness, stinging and watery eyes. Dry eyes occur when the eyes produce too few tears or when the tears are of poor quality. Prolonged dryness can damage the surface of the eye, so your optometrist or doctor may suggest artificial tear eye drops to keep the eyes moist.

Floaters look like little strings or specks that drift around in your field of vision and move away as you attempt to look directly at them. Floaters become more common over the age of 50 as the jelly-like vitreous fluid in the eye becomes thinner, and the fibres start to stick together, causing the floating specks in your vision. Floaters can be a sign of a more serious eye problem, like a retinal tear, so always get them checked out.

As we age, eyelids can become more hooded and start to droop. These changes are a natural part of growing older and are generally nothing to worry about. However, if your eyelid suddenly droops, is painful or develops any swelling or lumps, see your doctor for advice.

Tearing or watery eyes typically occur as a result of irritation. As you age, dry eyes and other eye conditions can cause the eyes to be more sensitive and prone to irritation. In response, your tear glands create more tears to keep the eyeball moist and wash away any irritant. Occasionally, watery eyes can require treatment. If you have any lumps, pain or signs of infection, or your eyelid is turning inwards or outwards, seek advice from your optometrist.

Ageing causes the tissues and muscles supporting the eyes to weaken and sag, causing puffiness or ‘bags’. Stopping smoking, getting enough good quality sleep and drinking plenty of water can all help reduce puffy eyes.