Glaucoma is considered the leading cause of blindness. The condition is classified as a group of eye diseases that increase eye pressure and cause damage to the optic nerve. A damaged optic nerve leads to permanent vision loss.

Studies show that around three million individuals in the U.S. are diagnosed with eye disease. Medical reports show that earlier detection and treatment could lessen the effects of the eye disease and slow down permanent and irreversible vision loss. 

What Are the First Signs of Glaucoma?

For many individuals, there may not be any signs or symptoms of glaucoma, and the person may not even experience any pain at first. Regular eye examinations are a must to find any signs of eye disease and assess vision loss. For many individuals, improper drainage blocks the iris and causes pressure in the eye.

If the person discovers any of these signs or has untreated cataracts, they need to set up an appointment with their eye care professional for a complete exam. At Tiffany Court of Walnut Creek, residents can set up eye care services and get transportation to their preferred eye care specialist. 

Are There Different Forms of Glaucoma?

There are two types of glaucoma, including open-angle and acute angle-closure glaucoma. With open-angle glaucoma, the eye is not getting sufficient drainage and fluid builds up in the eye, causing severe pressure.

The pressure is what causes a damaged optic nerve. In the preliminary stages of open-angle glaucoma, there aren’t any immediate signs of the disease, and the person doesn’t experience vision changes or any pain or discomfort. As the disease progresses, they notice changes in their peripheral vision. At the onset of any vision changes, it’s vital for the person to set up an eye examination. 

Acute angle-closure happens when the iris is blocked by fluid and the pressure in the eye increases too quickly. This is the most common form of eye disease and affects seniors most often. The most prevailing signs of glaucoma are blurred vision, severe eye pain, headaches, nausea or vomiting, and seeing halos around lights.

With this form of glaucoma, the disease is classified as a medical emergency, and the senior must get treated as quickly as possible to avoid permanent nerve damage and vision loss.

Who Is At Risk of Developing Glaucoma?

Studies show that anyone over the age of sixty is at a greater risk of developing glaucoma.  

What Are the Risk Factors for Glaucoma?

The risk factors for developing glaucoma start with age, a family history of glaucoma, diabetes, high blood pressure, high levels of steroid inhaler use, eye surgeries or injuries, and severe nearsightedness. Studies show that seniors who have hypertension or diabetes need more frequent eye examinations and must follow their doctor’s care plan for controlling their medical conditions.  

How Do You Manage and Treat Glaucoma?

Seniors with glaucoma may need to undergo surgeries to drain fluid from behind the eye and relieve the pressure that could damage the optic nerve. Eye care specialists can monitor the progression of the disease and present new therapies for helping seniors who are suffering from the condition. Vision loss can hinder their ability to complete the activities of daily life and may require everyday help.  

A Great Home for Seniors

Tiffany Court Assisted Living offers exceptional services for seniors living in their community. The property presents seniors with a private apartment and terrific amenities. Families and seniors who want to learn more about assisted living communities and all the great services can get started by scheduling a tour of the property now. 

Seniors who are 60 years of age or older may develop glaucoma and suffer some permanent vision loss. Studies show that the effects of glaucoma are irreversible and could lead to complete blindness. Seniors who develop acute angle-closure glaucoma need emergency medical treatment to minimize vision loss, pain, and discomfort.  

Annual eye examinations and better management of medical conditions such as hypertension and diabetes can help assess the progression of the disease. Since the early stages do not always present symptoms, some residents may not know they have the disease.

When living in an assisted living community, residents can get assistance with transportation to their doctor appointments. By moving into the community, seniors have access to exceptional services that are helpful and beneficial for everyone living in the community.