Signs Your Senior Parent May Have Low Vision

If your mom or dad is aging in place, and they enjoy living independently, they may not want to tell you that they are experiencing changes in their vision. Your senior parent may be afraid that they won’t be able to continue living at home if they have symptoms of low vision or if they are experiencing changes in their vision.

But it’s very common for seniors to experience changes in their vision as they get older. Macular degeneration is a normal part of aging that can contribute to low vision. Seniors also may develop eye conditions that are treatable if they are caught early, which is why it’s important for seniors to get regular vision exams.

Low vision doesn’t necessarily mean that your mom or dad can’t live alone. With support like elder care, many seniors can continue to live safely and comfortably at home. An elder care provider can help your mom or dad with chores like mopping, laundry, or dishes. They can also help with cooking, shopping, medication organization, reminders, and much more.

If you notice any of these symptoms of low vision, talk to your mom or dad about getting elder care, and make sure they get a vision screening as soon as possible:

 

Difficulty Reading

One of the first signs of low vision in seniors is trouble reading. Your mom or dad may struggle to see small print in books, newspapers, or on their phones. They might hold reading material very close to their eyes or need extra light. It could be a sign of low vision if they have to squint or use a magnifying glass to read.

 

Problems with Night Vision

Low vision can make it hard to see in dim light or at night. Your mom or dad might complain that the light in the house is too dim. Or, they may stumble walking down a hallway at night or into a room at night.

 

Blurred or Double Vision

Blurred or double vision is another sign of low vision. Seniors with low vision may notice that their eyesight is blurry, even with glasses or contacts. Objects may appear double, which can make it hard to read or recognize faces. This can happen more often when they are tired or in low-light settings.

If your mom or dad starts complaining about double vision or they can’t see the picture on the TV clearly that could be due to low vision.

 

Difficulty Seeing in High-Contrast Settings

Seniors with low vision might have trouble seeing in high-contrast settings. For example, they may struggle to see steps, curbs, or doorways. A dark object on a light background may be harder to see. This can make it dangerous for your mom or dad to do things like walk up and down stairs or move through rooms where they can’t see where the wall meets the door.

 

Frequent Bumping or Tripping

Low vision can make it hard for seniors to see obstacles in their way. They might frequently bump into furniture or trip over things. It may be harder for them to judge distances. This increases the risk of falls and injuries.

If you or your elder care provider notice that your mom or dad is tripping more than they used to or that they bump into furniture that’s in the same place it’s always been, they could be experiencing low vision.

 

 

 

If you or an aging loved one is considering Elder Care in Centerville, VA, please contact the caring staff at Thrive Health Care Services today. (703) 992-0484