Resources Archives - WelbeHealth

Overnight Oats for Seniors

November 30, 2023

If you’ve heard about the overnight oats trend, you likely know how convenient it is for breakfast or a snack. But beyond the ease, numerous health benefits have made it a hit among many seniors.

There are variations to the recipe, including overnight oats with coconut milk. These alternatives are great for anyone who wants to avoid dairy. These are also easy to make but require a few tweaks to get it right.

This article covers some basic info on overnight oats with coconut milk and a step-by-step guide for making them.

Benefits of Overnight Oats

Besides tasting great, overnight oats have a lot of health benefits. One of the main reasons people love this overnight oats recipe is convenience.

In terms of health benefits, oats have tons of beta-glucan, a soluble fiber. This can help lower blood cholesterol, blood pressure, and aid in digestion.

It is also chock full of antioxidants. These can stave off tissue damage and arterial inflammation, which are linked to heart disease and stroke.

Coconut milk is a great, dairy-free alternative to regular milk. It, too, is full of antioxidants and electrolytes, as well as protein, iron, and other important minerals.

Coconut milk also contains lauric acid, which has antiseptic properties. This can aid in fighting off bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. Coconut milk also aids in digestion and has some anti-inflammatory properties.

How to Make Overnight Oats With Coconut Milk?

First, the only overnight oats ingredients you will need are rolled oats and coconut milk. However, there are some other ingredients you may consider throwing in for added taste or health benefits. These include:

coconut flakes
vanilla extract
Maple syrup or honey
Chia seeds (a great source of fiber)
Pinch of salt

When purchasing, be sure to check the fat content of the coconut milk. Full-fat coconut milk (or coconut cream) tastes great, but it is less healthy and will make the overnight oats’ consistency too thick.

In terms of oats, choose brands that have a reputation for using high-quality ingredients. They will taste better and retain more health benefits than lower-quality ones. You can also find gluten-free options.

To make a single serving of overnight oats with coconut milk, first add one-third cup of oats to an 8 or 12-ounce jar. Then, top with one-half cup of light coconut milk.

At this point, you can add in any extra ingredients, like honey, salt, or chia seeds. Gently stir to mix, close the lid, and place in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours.

Overnight oats are great chilled, right out of the refrigerator. If you prefer them warm, pop them in the microwave. Also, if you do not eat them the next morning, they will keep for about three days.

Learn More About the Best Foods for Seniors

Now that you understand the key steps to making overnight oats with coconut milk, you can add this delicious, healthy recipe to your menu. It is a great way to improve gut health and digestion and start your day with antioxidants, electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals.

At WelbeHealth, we do well-being differently. Contact us today to learn more.

How Much Does a Wheelchair Cost on Average?

October 31, 2023

There are several reasons why you may need a wheelchair, but how much does a wheelchair cost? These are the prices you can expect.

When it comes to purchasing a wheelchair, one of the first questions that may come to mind is, “How much does a wheelchair cost?” The price of a wheelchair can vary greatly, depending on several factors.

Buying a wheelchair can get expensive, but don’t worry. There’s a way to get a reduced price on it, which we’ll discuss later. With that said, let’s take a look at the average wheelchair costs and how you can potentially save money.

How Much Does a Wheelchair Cost?

The cost of a manual wheelchair typically falls in the range of $100 to $500. These wheelchairs are often made of lightweight materials, like aluminum. They’re designed for individuals who have limited mobility but don’t require additional features.

Manual wheelchairs can be self-propelled or pushed by a caregiver. They typically have basic features, like adjustable footrests and armrests.

For those who require more advanced features, the cost of a manual wheelchair can increase significantly. Wheelchairs with specialized seats or custom modifications range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more.

These wheelchairs are often recommended for individuals with specific medical conditions or mobility needs. They may include features like tilt-in-space recline, power-assisted wheels, or specialized cushioning for pressure relief.

Electric Wheelchair Prices

Electric wheelchairs, also known as power wheelchairs, are another option. They’re powered by batteries and maneuver using a joystick or other control system. The cost of an electric wheelchair varies depending on weight capacity, range, and additional features.

Basic electric wheelchairs start at around $1,500. However, the price can go up to $5,000 or more for higher-end models.

It’s important to note that these prices are just averages and can differ based on where the wheelchair is purchased. Prices may also be influenced by insurance coverage or discounts offered by certain providers.

Furthermore, extra costs may be required when buying a wheelchair. If ramps or lifts are needed, that’s usually a separate charge.

When considering the cost of a wheelchair, always factor in the ongoing maintenance and repair costs. Like any piece of durable medical equipment, wheelchairs require periodic maintenance or repairs.

It’s recommended to inquire about warranty options or service plans. These options will help to mitigate these potential costs.

Medicare and Wheelchairs

Although wheelchairs are pricey, Medicare Part B may cover them as durable medical equipment. This means that seniors can save a significant amount of money.

Even without Medicare, most durable medical equipment companies offer payment plans to customers.

Understanding Wheelchair Costs

How much does a wheelchair cost? We hope this article answers that burning question for you. As you can see, there are a lot of factors that go into the overall price of a wheelchair. Thankfully, Medicare may help with the financial load.

If you or your loved one needs assistance, we’re here for you. At WelbeHealth, our goal is to help the elderly thrive. We provide full-service care for seniors through in-home care, prescription delivery, and more.

To learn more about us, call 1 (888) 530-4415, or contact us on our website.

How Does Diabetes Affect the Endocrine System? A Helpful Guide

September 29, 2023

1 in 10 Americans are dealing with diabetes. On top of that, 20 percent of people with diabetes have no idea they have it. Uncontrolled diabetes does a number on many parts of your body, especially your endocrine system.

How does diabetes affect the endocrine system? We have all of the answers for you right here. Read on to learn all about living with diabetes.

What Is the Endocrine System?

The endocrine system is made up of a number of different organs and glands, all of which are meant to promote energy metabolism. The most prominent organ in the endocrine system is the pancreas, which regulates your blood glucose levels. It also includes the ovaries and testes.

Endocrine system glands include the adrenal, pineal, pituitary, and thyroid gland. The adrenal gland boosts your blood glucose levels and causes your heart to beat faster, while the thyroid gland regulates your metabolism. Finally, the pituitary gland is in charge of growth and the pineal gland regulates your sleep.

How Does Diabetes Affect the Endocrine System?

Think of your endocrine system like an engine. The food you eat fuels that engine, which in turn has an impact on your blood glucose levels. Ideally, you want a steady level of blood glucose to keep your body running.

When you have diabetes, your body has a harder time regulating your blood glucose levels. They can either go far too high or far too low. What happens to your blood glucose depends on the type of diabetes with which you’re diagnosed.

Type 1 Diabetes

People who have type 1 diabetes are unable to produce enough insulin to properly respond to the intake of food. This causes blood glucose levels to spike. People diagnosed with type 1 diabetes have to inject insulin in order to properly regulate their blood glucose.

Type 2 Diabetes

People who have type 2 diabetes produce sufficient insulin, but their body doesn’t respond to it. This also results in high blood glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes treatment includes medication that increases your body’s sensitivity to insulin and keeps blood glucose levels balanced.

Living with Diabetes

The impact of diabetes extends far beyond your endocrine system. If you have it, you should be seeing a doctor regularly to make sure it’s well controlled. You’ll also want to get eye exams and visit the podiatrist to avoid things like diabetic retinopathy and diabetic neuropathy.

The better you control your diabetes, the better the likelihood of positive health outcomes!

Are You in Need of Diabetes Help?

How does diabetes affect the endocrine system?

As it turns out, the answer depends on whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes. At a minimum, your body isn’t producing enough insulin or it isn’t responding to insulin. No matter what type of diabetes you have, it’s critical that you see your doctor regularly to make sure it’s properly managed.

Are you looking for compassionate care for seniors living with diabetes? WelbeHealth is there for you. Contact us today to learn how we provide seniors with full-service healthcare and personalized support to help you age well at home and in your community.

5 Easy Crafts for Seniors With Dementia

August 31, 2023

There are several ways you can keep someone with dementia engaged. Check out this guide for some easy crafts for seniors with dementia.

13.9% of Americans have some kind of dementia. Art and crafts are a great way to entertain and help dementia patients pass the time. They create new neural connections.

Engaging in creative activities can have a positive impact. Both on the mental and emotional well-being of seniors. This is especially true for folks with dementia.

Crafts provide a stimulating and enjoyable way for seniors to express themselves. They can reminisce and maintain a sense of purpose.

Here are five rewarding and easy crafts for seniors with dementia.

1. Memory Boxes

Memory boxes are a wonderful way for seniors with dementia to connect with their past.

To create a memory box, gather a small, sturdy box. Collect various items, such as:

Old photographs
Postcards
Trinkets
Other sentimental objects

Encourage your loved one to decorate the box. Use paint, stickers, or markers.

As you work on the memory box together, prompt them with questions about the items they’re including. Encourage them to share stories and memories associated with each item.

The completed memory box becomes a valuable keepsake. It can be revisited and enjoyed repeatedly.

2. Collage Art

All you need are old magazines, scissors, glue, and a piece of paper or cardboard as the canvas.

Request your loved one to cut out images and words from magazines. These images should appeal to them or bring back memories.

As you create collages, discuss the pictures and words they choose. Ask open-ended questions to spark conversations.

The process of creating collages allows for self-expression.

3. Painted Rocks

Painted rocks are a simple and enjoyable craft. It can be done indoors or outdoors.

Collect smooth and flat rocks.

Provide non-toxic acrylic paint, brushes, and water. Ask your loved one to paint the rocks however they prefer.

Painted rocks can serve as garden decorations or paperweights. The act of painting the rocks promotes creativity and focus. It also offers a sense of achievement.

It’s a craft that can be done at a relaxed pace. This allows for breaks and conversations as needed.

4. Bead Jewelry

This craft enhances fine motor skills and provides a sense of accomplishment. You can create necklaces, bracelets, or even keychains.

To get started, gather an assortment of items, like:

Colorful beads
Strings
Clasps
Pliers

Guide your loved one through the process. Help them select beads. Offering assistance with threading and fastening clasps if needed.

Bead jewelry provides a tactile and visually stimulating activity. The finished pieces can be proudly worn or gifted to loved ones.

5. Paper Flowers

You’ll need colored paper, scissors, glue, and green pipe cleaners.

Ask your loved one to cut out petal shapes from colored paper. Attach them to the pipe cleaner stem with glue.

These paper flowers are simple to create. They can be arranged in vases or used for various decorative purposes.

Choose Easy Crafts for Seniors With Dementia

Living with dementia isn’t easy either for the patient or their relatives. That’s why easy crafts for seniors with dementia can be such a boon. They can entertain and help build a connection.

Check out WelbeHealths Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). It’s a full-service option for seniors. It allows them to stay at home and in their community. Learn if you qualify here.

How to Ask for Help With Depression: A Guide for Seniors

July 31, 2023

Living with depression can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. This is how to ask for help with depression.

Are you experiencing a loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy? Do you have feelings of sadness and hopelessness or difficulty sleeping? If so, you may be struggling with depression.

As we get older, life can become more lonely and it may leave you feeling lost.

Living with this disorder can be challenging, especially if you don’t know how to ask for help with depression. You might feel it’s not worth reaching out to someone.

If this describes you in any way, keep reading. This article discusses depression, the symptoms, and how to ask for help so you don’t have to feel this way any longer.

What Is Depression?

Depression, also called depressive disorder, is a mental disorder. It’s common and is characterized by an all-encompassing sadness or negative view of life. Depression affects how you think and act, leading to various emotional and physical problems that interfere with daily functioning.

Depression can occur at any age; however, it begins more commonly as an adult. There are several types of depression, such as:

Major Depressive Disorder
Persistent Depressive Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder

Signs of Depression

Depression can present differently from person to person. Typically, symptoms include:

Feelings of sadness
Loss of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyed activities
Changes in appetite
Changes in weight
Trouble sleeping
Excess fatigue
Feelings of worthlessness
Feelings of guilt
Difficulty concentrating
Thoughts of suicide or suicide ideation

How to Ask for Help With Depression

Depression as a senior is manageable if you seek treatment. A medical professional will typically prescribe an antidepressant and possibly a mood stabilizer. If you’re unsure of how to ask for help with depression, there are a few things you can try.

Find a Trusted Person

Identify a trusted person with whom you can confide in. This can be a family member, friend, pastor, etc.

Be Open and Honest

When you sit down and chat with a trusted person, you must be open and honest about your feelings. Ask them if they’re willing to help you through this difficult time.

Seek Professional Depression Treatment

If you need help seeking professional help, ask someone you trust to help find a professional or accompany you to one. A professional will have the necessary experience to help.

Help Is Around the Corner

Living with depression can be challenging as a senior, but it’s not something you have to battle alone. If you’re unsure how to ask for help with depression, ask someone you trust if they’re willing to listen.

You want to choose the right time to ask, and when they accept, be honest with how you feel. Professional help is strongly recommended wherever possible to assist with medications if necessary.

WelbeHealth provides full-service healthcare and personalized support to help you age well at home and in your community. Our Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) meets the changing needs of seniors, often at no cost. Many of our centers have support groups available to help you through your difficult times. To learn more visit: https://welbehealth.com/contact/

Stay Safe in the Sun – A Guide for Seniors

June 30, 2023

As the summer heat approaches, everyone loves to head outside and enjoy the outdoors after months of being cooped up indoors. However, the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays can cause serious skin damage and lead to different types of skin cancer. For seniors, sun safety is essential to avoid skin damage and protect themselves from excessive heat. Let’s discuss some important tips and tricks on how seniors can stay safe in the sun.

Wear Sun-Protective Clothing
One of the easiest ways for seniors to stay safe in the sun is to wear sun-protective clothing. This includes wearing long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and other clothing that will keep your skin protected from the sun. Look for fabrics that are lightweight, moisture-wicking, and provide UV protection. Opt for clothes that cover your arms and legs as much as possible to minimize sun exposure.

Apply Sunscreen Regularly
Sunscreen is a must regardless of age. Seniors should choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply sunscreen liberally at least 30 minutes before you go outside and reapply it every two hours or more often if you sweat or swim. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your ears, back of the neck, hands, and feet. These areas are often overlooked but can be severely affected by harmful UV rays.

Avoid Peak Sun Hours
Typically, the sun’s UV rays are most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Seniors should avoid being outside during these peak hours or plan outdoor activities early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun’s rays are less intense. Even on cloudy or overcast days, it’s essential to stay cautious and wear sun-protective clothing and sunscreen.

Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is essential in the summer heat, especially for seniors. Make sure to drink plenty of water even if you don’t feel thirsty. Carry a water bottle with you at all times when you’re outside and avoid sugary drinks like soda or energy drinks. Dehydration can quickly set in, making you feel dizzy or nauseous, and can lead to heat exhaustion.

Seek Shade and Cool Off
Lastly, if you start to feel overheated or uncomfortable in the sun, it’s important to seek shade and cool off. Find a shady spot under a tree or bring a parasol or umbrella with you. Take breaks regularly, go indoors to an air-conditioned room, or take a dip in the pool or ocean to cool off.

Sun safety is essential for seniors, and following these tips can help keep them safe and protected when enjoying the outdoors. Wearing sun-protective clothing, applying sunscreen, avoiding peak sun hours, staying hydrated, and seeking shade are all simple and easy ways to avoid harmful UV rays. Being proactive about sun safety can help seniors reduce their risk of skin damage and keep them healthy and happy all summer long.

Seniors deserve to have access to the greatest care possible. Learn more about PACE so you can improve the quality of your life.

Top 5 Ways to Care For Senior Mental Health

May 1, 2023

In the famous words of Isaac Newton, “A body in motion stays in motion.” As you age, it’s important to stay active to maintain your body’s ability to perform various activities throughout the day.

Did you know this principle also applies to your mind? There are many things you can do to support your mental health as you age.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’ve put together five of the best ways to care for senior mental health.

1. Eat Well

A healthy diet can help boost your mood and keep your body and mind feeling well. After all, around 20% of your daily calories go toward powering your brain, so it only makes sense that how you eat would impact your mental health!

Incorporate as many of the following into your daily diet as you can:

Fruits
Vegetables
Legumes and nuts
Whole grains

Also, do your best to limit saturated fats and processed sugars.

2. Stick to a Sleep Schedule

Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule is one of the best ways to preserve your mental health as you age. Despite popular belief, even seniors need around eight hours of sleep every night!

To help you get restful sleep and cut the number of times you wake up throughout the evening, practice good sleep hygiene habits. Reduce as much noise and light in your sleeping space as you can, invest in a high-quality mattress and pillow, and put screens away before you get ready for bed.

3. Engage in Social Activities

Our relationships are at the core of our well-being. Having strong relationships can help you feel happier and even slow the progression of dementia and cardiovascular diseases.

Talking with close friends and family throughout the day can help you feel a sense of purpose and fill your days. If you can, set up in-person visits with your loved ones, as you’ll get a greater sense of connection than from texting or a phone call.

4. Incorporate Movement Into Your Day

Efforts to maintain your mental health can be greatly boosted by matching efforts to maintain your physical health. While you don’t have to push yourself to discomfort or pain, even moderate movement throughout the day can have lasting benefits for your mind, including stress relief and increased levels of energy throughout the day.

If you’re the kind of person who benefits from exercising in community, you have many options available to you. See if there’s a gym in your neighborhood that holds gentle yoga, stretching, or other classes accessible for seniors. If not, try your local library, or gather a group of friends yourself!

5. Exercise Your Mind

Finally, exercising your mind is just as important as exercising your body. Even a few minutes of brain teasers and word puzzles every day can go a long way toward maintaining the long-term health of your mind. Next time you hit a patch of boredom, consider picking up one of the following activities:

Jigsaw puzzles
Crossword puzzles
Brain teasers
Sudoku
Scrabble
Bingo
Solitaire

Caring for Senior Mental Health

By eating well, getting enough sleep, maintaining relationships, and prioritizing movement throughout the day, senior mental health can be preserved for years to come. Go grab a friend, a crossword puzzle, and your walking shoes, and get started today!

Here at WelbeHealth, our goal is to help seniors thrive. We do this by prioritizing human connections, pursuing resourceful solutions, and working toward a common purpose. Together, we want to help you gain access to live the life you deserve.

Want to find out if you qualify? Contact us today!

Senior Nutrition: Eating the Right Things as You Age

April 10, 2023

The right senior nutrition will help you prevent age-related illnesses. Use this list to create the best meal plan for your health.

Did you know that around 17% of the population in the United States is 65 years old or older? With such a large group, it’s crucial that we pay attention to the foods we eat as we get older to maintain our health and well-being.

As more people are waiting to have kids and raising smaller families than before, we can expect the senior population to continue to boom over the next few generations. With this in mind, it’s crucial for all of us to educate ourselves on senior welfare topics so we can all support each other.

Are you well-versed in senior nutrition? Eating healthy matters at all ages, but it becomes even more vital as we get older. Keep reading our guide if you’d like to dive deeper into the world of senior nutrition so you can make sure that you cover all of your bases.

Managing Your Calories and Staying Active as You Age

One of the hardest aspects of getting older is learning how to reduce your calories in a mindful way as your metabolism slows down. Since seniors tend to expend fewer calories, eating smaller meals can help prevent unhealthy weight gain.

To make this transition easier, you should try to maintain an active lifestyle. Not only will this allow you to eat a bit more without gaining weight, but it will also nurture your physical and mental health. Active seniors reduce their risk of developing a wide range of wellness issues.

Eating Right as a Senior: A Balanced Diet for Essential Nutrients

Lots of people are alarmed to hear that 92% of Americans are deficient in at least one vitamin. The reason why it’s crucial to get as many nutrients as you can in your diet as you get older is that your body wears down more. For example, being diligent about getting enough calcium in your diet can help you avoid breaking your bones if you fall down.

The good news is that you don’t need to spend a bunch of time mapping out your meals for the week to increase your nutrient intake. All you need to do is cook with nutritious ingredients. Fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and heart-healthy fats have everything you need to thrive as a senior.

It’s Important to Learn About Foods to Avoid and Reduce

Labeling foods as good or bad can take a lot of joy out of life. Instead, you should focus on the wellness benefits. Lots of people enjoy following the 80/20 lifestyle that involves getting 80% of their calories from nutritious foods, while 20% can be for fun.

A key component of eating well is reducing your consumption of processed sugars, refined carbs, and hydrogenated fats. These foods are empty calories that can trigger inflammation and sap energy.

This Senior Nutrition Can Help Everyone Stay Healthy as They Age

The principles of senior nutrition are easy to follow. As long as you stay close to the principles, you can start making healthier choices that help you feel incredible from the inside out.

Seniors deserve to have access to the greatest care possible. Learn more about PACE so you can improve the quality of your life.

Seven Simple Exercises to Reduce Blood Pressure in Seniors

March 27, 2023

High blood pressure in seniors can be worrisome. Utilize these very simple exercises to help keep your blood pressure in the normal range.

Most adults over the age of 65 have high blood pressure to some degree. This number is expected to rise over the coming years due to a combination of diet choices, the aging population, and unhealthy lifestyle choices.

Hypertension can result in decreased blood flow to the heart and reduced oxygenation of your body’s organs. It can cause chest pain, heart failure, strokes, and more. The worst part is that it can easily go unnoticed without regular doctor’s checkups.

Here are seven exercises to reduce blood pressure in seniors that may be at higher risk.

1. Walking

One of the simplest and easiest forms of exercise for reducing hypertension is by going for short walks at least a few days a week. You should walk for at least 30 minutes at whatever pace is most comfortable. Doing so can reduce your stress levels, help with blood flow, and is a good way to burn off extra calories.

2. Jogging

If you want a more efficient way to reduce high blood pressure, you can also jog. This is a higher-impact option that requires a higher level of fitness than walking. It’s harder on your joints, so it may not be a good option for everyone.

3. Dancing

A fun way to have fun and lower blood pressure at the same time is by dancing. Not only does it help you burn off stress but it’s also something you can do in the comfort of your own home.

4. Swimming

Anyone with access to a pool can engage in swimming exercises. This provides a great way for anyone to get active without suffering much joint pain.

5. Cycling

Cycling is another activity you can do both indoors and outdoors. It’s a great exercise for your lower body, helps burn calories, and gets your blood pumping. You also won’t have to worry about excess joint pain since you’ll be seated.

6. Gardening

If you’ve just started up some new blood pressure medication, a safe form of exercise is gardening. Taking care of some flowers or vegetables in your yard requires a lot of bending over, sitting down, standing up, and doing minor digging.

One of the biggest benefits is that you can garden on your own property, so you can start and stop whenever you like.

7. Hiking

Anyone who wants to explore the outdoors and get some sun will enjoy hiking. How strenuous this activity will be for you will largely depend on the trail you choose.

Some inclines and hills require more muscle power to traverse. However, you can also find plenty of easier trails if you want to take in the scenery. Just remember to wear sunblock while you’re out.

Achieve Lower Blood Pressure in Seniors

High blood pressure in seniors needs to be avoided at all costs. Try out some of these different exercises if you want to become more active and improve your health.

WelbeHealth provides full-service healthcare and support catered to seniors. Get home care, transportation assistance, and more. Contact us to find out if you qualify.

The Importance of Regular Eye Care

February 28, 2023

The secrets that an eye exam can unlock

Making regular eye care a priority can be life-changing. Eleven million Americans need help with their vision, and technology has improved drastically in recent years. Eye exams can prevent trouble by alerting your doctor to health conditions you didn’t know you had and prevent vision loss. The typical eye exam is fast, simple, and pain-free.

What is a basic eye exam?

Just by taking a few simple eye images, a doctor can get an early glimpse of eye diseases and use treatments to preserve your vision or restore what you may have already lost. The first step is usually a dilated eye exam given by an optometrist. The test measures eye alignment, eye movement, visual sharpness, and depth perception. New technology offers an alternative to dilated eye exams. Sometimes, a doctor will snap a simple picture of your pupil, allowing them to see as far inside as they need without eye drops.

“Eye exams can also highlight other health issues. If we can see trouble coming, we can treat it faster and get ahead of it,” says Otashe Golden, MD, Regional Medical Director at WelbeHealth.

Many people, when they try on a new pair of glasses, suddenly see clearly and realize how out of focus the world had become. “Most of us have experienced it – and it can be scary,” says Dr. Golden. “One day you can read street signs perfectly well, and the next, you are driving on the highway at night and can’t find your exit.”

Many eye diseases are relatively common and can go unnoticed for a long time, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration.

Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in adults

Diabetes patients are at higher risk for glaucoma and cataracts. Diabetic retinopathy — scarring on the retina’s blood vessels — can happen due to high blood sugar levels and is the leading cause of blindness in American adults. Diabetic retinopathy is also the most preventable cause of blindness. By seeing an eye doctor, early detection and treatment can prevent or delay blindness. For most people with diabetes, there can be very little treatment available if the diagnosis comes too late.

How often do you need an eye exam?

How often should you get an eye exam depends on certain factors. For people with diabetes, it is recommended to get an eye exam every year. On the other hand, individuals who are African American and aged 40 years and older, Mexican Americans who are 60 years or older, and those with a family history of glaucoma should have an eye exam at least every two years.

Get Ways to Protect Your Vision

Get regular eye exams.
Eat a healthy diet and maintain a healthy weight.
Wear sunglasses that block out 99% to 100% of UA and UVB sunlight.
Don’t smoke.
Use protective eyewear to avoid injury.
If you are reading on a screen, be sure to take frequent breaks to give your eyes a rest.

Pay attention to symptoms of eye trouble.

Call your family doctor, nurse, or eye doctor if you notice eye symptoms such as:

Difficulty seeing or double vision
Redness of the eye or pain in the eye
Flashes of light
Floaters (specks look like they float in front of you)
Circles/halos around lights