Focus Points: Common Eye Conditions After 50 and How to Deal With Them
- Angelina Triscari
- Aug 11
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 13
By: Angelina Triscrai | Lehigh Valley Center For Sight Marketing & Media
Common Eye Conditions After 50 and How to Deal With Them
As we age, our eyes, just like the rest of our bodies, go through changes. Some of these changes are a normal part of getting older, while others may signal the start of an eye condition that needs attention. Regular eye exams become even more important after age 50, as early detection can make all the difference in maintaining healthy vision. Here’s a look at some of the most common eye conditions after 50 and practical tips for dealing with them!
1. Presbyopia (Age-Related Near Vision Changes)
What it is: Presbyopia is the gradual loss of your eye’s ability to focus on nearby objects. It’s why you might find yourself holding reading material at arm’s length.
What to do: Reading glasses, bifocals, or progressive lenses can help. Regular eye exams will ensure your prescription stays up-to-date.
2. Cataracts
What it is: A cataract occurs when the natural lens of your eye becomes cloudy, causing blurry vision, glare, and faded colors.
What to do: In early stages, stronger lighting and updated eyewear may help. When cataracts begin to interfere with daily activities, cataract surgery, one of the most common and successful surgeries worldwide, can restore clear vision.
3. Dry Eye Syndrome
What it is: Tear production often decreases with age, leading to dryness, irritation, and a gritty sensation.
What to do: Use artificial tears regularly, avoid overly dry environments, and consider dietary changes like increasing omega-3 fatty acids. In some cases, prescription treatments or in-office procedures may be necessary.
4. Glaucoma
What it is: Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, often due to high eye pressure. It can cause gradual vision loss without noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
What to do: Because glaucoma is painless and symptomless at first, routine eye exams with pressure checks are critical. If diagnosed, treatment can include prescription eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery to prevent further vision loss.
5. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
What it is: AMD affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision, making it harder to read, drive, or recognize faces.
What to do: While there’s no cure, certain lifestyle habits, such as not smoking, eating leafy greens, and protecting eyes from UV light, can slow progression. Some patients benefit from special vitamins or advanced treatments like injections.
6. Diabetic Retinopathy
What it is: This condition occurs in people with diabetes when high blood sugar damages retinal blood vessels.
What to do: Keep blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol under control. Annual dilated eye exams are essential for catching and treating the condition early.
Protecting Your Vision After 50
Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams at least once a year or as recommended by your eye doctor.
Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and good sleep habits.
Know your family history; some conditions, like glaucoma and AMD, can run in families.
The Lehigh Valley Center for Sight Can Help You Maintain Your Sight
If you would like to schedule an eye exam, call us at 610-437-4988 or use the contact form on our website. We can answer your questions and schedule an eye exam so you can take steps to maintain your sight.
