Over 50? Ophthalmologist shares 6 lifestyle changes to protect your eyes and prevent vision loss

Gradual vision loss isn’t inevitable with age. Follow these 6 expert-backed lifestyle tips to protect your eyes from glaucoma and macular degeneration. (Image: Pexels)

There’s something terrifying about losing your sight. Not suddenly, but gradually, often without you even realising it’s happening. That’s the reality for many older adults facing glaucoma or age-related macular degeneration (AMD). However, by making a few positive lifestyle changes now, you can protect your vision.

Ageing eyes are a fact of life. Vision starts to blur, fine print seems finer, and night driving becomes trickier. But what many don’t realise is that these changes can warn serious diseases. “Glaucoma is often called the silent thief of sight for a reason,” explains Dr Sunanda Haldar, Opthamologist, Senior Consultant, Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals. "Most people won’t notice symptoms until permanent vision loss has begun. That’s why early detection is key", Dr Haldar tells Moneycontrol.

Glaucoma, explains Dr Haldar, damages the optic nerve, usually due to pressure building up in the eye. “Macular degeneration, on the other hand, affects central vision and makes reading or recognising faces difficult.” While both have genetic risk factors, Dr Haldar emphasises that lifestyle plays a major role. She says, "What you eat, how much you move, how you sleep, it all affects your eye health."

Also Read: Eye care tips: Simple steps to keep your eyesight sharp for years to come

The best defence, she says, is a combination of regular check-ups and lifestyle tweaks. While it’s easy to dismiss vision changes as 'just getting older', delaying action could cost you more than a pair of reading glasses.

Dr Haldar shares 6 lifestyle changes to help protect ageing eyes

Get regular eye exams: Early-stage glaucoma and AMD are often symptom-free. Eye tests detect issues before vision is lost. “It’s vital to catch these conditions early,” says Dr Haldar.

Eat for your vision:  Antioxidants, leafy greens, and omega-3 fatty acids all help maintain retinal health.

Bonus tip: Cut out smoking, it’s the biggest lifestyle risk for AMD.

Mind the sun: UV rays can worsen macular degeneration. Good sunglasses aren’t a fashion accessory, they’re protection.

Move more, sit less: Physical activity boosts blood flow, including to the eyes. It also helps manage diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol, big risk factors for eye disease.

Limit screen time and improve lighting: Staring at screens for long hours and bad lighting, both add stress to ageing eyes. “Simple eye exercises and proper lighting can reduce fatigue and strain,” advises Dr Haldar.

Hydrate and sleep well: Eyes need moisture and rest. Dry eyes and poor sleep patterns can worsen age-related symptoms.

Also Read: What to do when your eyes feel tired? Ophthalmologist shares 7 ways to relax them

It’s never too late to take charge: 

Eye ageing may be inevitable, but vision loss doesn’t have to be. Dr Haldar informs, “Don’t wait for symptoms. Prevention starts long before problems begin.”

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.