Don't take your eyes for granted

Imagine what life would be like if you could not see well. Reading might not be possible. Watching your favorite television show could be a challenge. Focusing on the face of a loved one could drive you to tears. The number of people losing their vision is growing, yet experts say much of this vision loss could be prevented.

Do not put off regular eye exams because your eyes feel fine, or you do not wear glasses or contact lenses. Signs of eye diseases like glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration might be present before you notice symptoms.

Caring for your eyes

• Visit your eye care provider regularly (yearly if you are 65 or older).
• Do not smoke; try to stay away from second-hand smoke and air pollution.
• Eat healthy foods, especially leafy green vegetables, and foods with omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and tuna.
• Wear sunglasses that protect your eyes from UVA and UVB rays.
• Exercise regularly; for substantial health benefits, adults should do at least 150 minutes (two hours and 30 minutes) a week of moderate intensity exercise or 75 minutes (one hour and 15 minutes) of vigorous aerobic exercise, or a combination of moderate and vigorous intensity aerobic activity.
• Wear protective eye wear when engaged in sports such as tennis, cycling, baseball, pickle ball, or other activities (such as yardwork) that can endanger eyes.