Good Vision can Prevent Falls and Save Lives
One of the things about getting older is that we are at greater risk of falling. Sadly, our vision and body deteriorates and this can cause issues in later life. If you are worried about the consequences of taking a tumble or have a family member who is vulnerable in this regard, this post is for you.
Falling in Old Age
Falling when you’re elderly can have severe consequences. A broken hip can result in hospitalisation, disabilities, and in the worst case scenario, death. Research into preventing falls has discovered that vision plays a significant part in preventing falls.
A study commissioned by the Geriatric Society and the College of Optometrists show that almost 1 in 3 people that were aged 65 or over suffered impaired vision. This is what you may be experiencing if you’re in this age group in terms of vision loss:
- Blurry, distorted vision
- Sensitivity to bright lights/glare
- Difficulty seeing objects
- Depth perception problems
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Problems seeing the edges and changes in surfaces
As a result you may experience issues with maintaining balance, movement, and seeing objects in your path. Although vision is not the only factor to falls in your old age, it is significant.
Eye Examinations Help Considerably in Avoiding Falls
Although eye examinations will not help you completely to avoid falls, they will give help you stay you on feet. The same data that showed 30% of people aged over 65 had vision problems also revealed that almost 75% had issues that could be corrected through wearing glasses or contact lenses. So, next steps:
- Make an appointment with your optometrist. If you live in the London area you can do that by clicking here and contacting your nearest branch.
- Ensure your eye examinations are regular to ensure spectacle prescriptions are up to date
- In your home adjust lighting so that you can see but does not cause glare
- Think about adding nightlights to help you see
- Try and reduce trip hazards such as electrical cords
If you still have difficult seeing, speak to your doctor about low vision services.
Sources: Fall Prevention, BGS.org.uk, Aop.org.uk
