Seniors and Cataracts
As we age, we can experience certain health and wellness changes that affect our senses, including our ability to see clearly. Cataracts is a common vision problem often associated with getting older. Here’s some insight from specialists in assisted living in Gloucester County, NJ.
What are cataracts?Â
Cataracts is a condition in which the lens of the eye becomes cloudy due to blockages of protein and hardening, distorting the light that enters the eye and causing vision loss. As the condition progresses, the lens of the eye changes from clear to a yellow/brown color, which starts to add a brown tint to eyesight along with vision loss. They can occur in either or both eyes, but cannot be transmitted from one eye to the other.
Signs and symptoms of cataractsÂ
Although not painful, it does cause gradual vision loss that, if left untreated, can lead to blindness. People with cataracts may experience:
- Blurry vision
- Glare
- Faded colors or difficulty telling colors apart
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Double vision
- Halo effect around objects
What can cause cataracts?Â
Cataracts are generally a result of the aging process, but the risks of developing them can be significantly increased in smokers, diabetics and steroid users. People who have suffered chemical burns or a direct injury to the eye, or electric shock can also develop cataracts as a result.
How can cataracts be treated?
Fortunately, there are ways to treat cataracts, the most effective being surgery. With modern surgical technology, treatment can take place soon after diagnosis, and the damaged lens can be removed and replaced with a permanent plastic lens. The results of this surgery are impressive, restoring clear vision almost immediately with a quick recovery time.
Experience true quality of life care – Choose assisted living at Pitman, NJÂ
Pitman is an assisted living community in Gloucester County, NJ, offering high quality assisted living services in a comfortable, well-supported and beautiful environment. As part of the United Methodist Communities network, we also offer hospice, rehabilitation, respite care and memory support services. We welcome seniors from all faith backgrounds.
To find out more about our assisted living community, please contact us today or book a personal tour.
