Glaucoma and your Aging Parent
Senior Care in Amberley OH: Glaucoma and your Aging Parent
There are several different types of glaucoma—all that can eventually result in damage to the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss and blindness. It is most often due to the backup of fluid which normally flows through the eye and nourishes the tissues. This backup of fluid increases intraocular pressure which results in damage to the optic nerve. Glaucoma is the second most common cause of blindness in the United States.
Symptoms
Glaucoma offers very little warning signs. In fact, it is estimated that 2 million people in America have the disease and do not know it. The very first sign of glaucoma may be the loss of peripheral vision which, once it has occurred, is irreversible. The good news is that once diagnosed, medication or surgery can often halt its progression. The only way to obtain a correct diagnosis is from a comprehensive eye exam which is why it is so important that your elderly parent make an appointment with their ophthalmologist at least once a year.
After the Diagnosis
If your parent has been diagnosed with glaucoma and has lost some peripheral vision, there are a few things you can do to help keep them safe and help them choose lifestyle options that have the greatest positive impact.
A Safe Haven
Take a fresh look at your parent’s home environment and make sure that it is as safe as possible. This includes removing any tripping or slipping hazards such as throw rugs, wires that cross pathways or furniture that obstructs common walkways. Make sure stairways have banisters on each side. Install grab bars in appropriate places such as in the shower and by the toilet and place non-skid mats in showers and in front of sinks. Make sure the lighting is adequate and consider placing lamps with shades in strategic areas where your parent often sits.
Exercise
Several studies have shown that exercise, particularly aerobic exercise, can reduce intraocular pressure. Choose activities such as brisk walking or bicycling. If joint pain is an issue, water aerobics is a good solution. Your parent will want to avoid exercises that bring their head down—such as certain yoga positions—as this can increase intraocular pressure.
Senior Care Provider
Your loved one may need assistance with the daily activities of living. If so, consider obtaining the services of a senior care provider. These professionals can run errands, do the grocery shopping, prepare healthy meals, accompany your parent on daily walks as well as perform the everyday tasks, helping your loved one as they face the diagnosis of glaucoma with companionship and care.
If you or an aging loved one are considering senior care in Ambereley, OH, please contact the caring staff at Queen City Elder Care today. Serving Cincinnati and Surrounding Communities. Call Us Today (513) 510-4410.
Resources:
http://www.healthinaging.org/aging-and-health-a-to-z/topic:glaucoma/
https://medlineplus.gov/magazine/issues/summer08/articles/summer08pg14-15.html
https://www.reviewofophthalmology.com/article/taking-control-lifestyle-choices-and-glaucoma
Michele Vollmer is a visionary leader who is perpetually searching for ways to improve, so to remain at the leading edge of the home care industry.She has served in the healthcare industry since 1989, including pharmaceutical and home health sales, as well as hospice sales and sales management.
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