Protecting Your Vision

SECC

SOUTH ESSEX COMMUNITY COUNCIL

Everyone can use a hand sometimes. Let us help you!

SECC helps individuals 55+ and persons with disabilities stay active, social, and independent in their homes and in their communities.

Here are the current programs and services offered:

Meals on Wheels Transportation Services Adult Day Program Security Check Friendly Visitation Social Events

519-326-8629

Older adults these days typically look and act a lot different than the traditional depictions of retirees. However, even the most active and energetic boomers may still be vulnerable to age-related health complications, including vision problems.

The good news is that there are a number of ways to protect your vision now to reduce the risk of vision problems in the future.

Make your diet work for you

A number of eye diseases can develop after an individual turns 60, and some of these conditions can be minimized with wise lifestyle choices. For example, a healthy, nutrient-rich diet can protect vision over the long haul. Studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids, which can be found in foods like spinach, kale and salmon, can reduce the risk for age-related eye diseases.

Protect your eyes outdoors

Lengthy exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays can cause both short- and long-term eye damage. Thankfully, such issues are easily avoided by wearing sunglasses with UV protection when going outside. Brimmed hats can also protect the eyes from harmful UV rays.

Be mindful of screen time.

Much has been made of how much screen time is healthy for young people, but older adults are also not immune to the potentially harmful effects of spending too much time staring at phones and other devices. When it comes to screen time, it’s best to use the 2020-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look about 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This quick exercise can reduce eye strain.