Elderly individuals who are at least 85 years of age are at the greatest risk of developing glaucoma. The eye disease causes increased pressure on the optic nerve and may lead to permanent blindness if left untreated. There are two primary types of glaucoma, including open-angle and angle-closure.
Schedule A Regular Eye Examination
Eye care specialists recommend scheduling a routine eye examination at least once a year for anyone who has a history of glaucoma. The eye disease can lead to partial or complete blindness depending on the stage of the disease.
Routine eye examinations are the only way to monitor the progression of glaucoma. Residents who live in a community that offers assisted living in Los Angeles, CA have access to transportation when they need to visit their preferred eye care professional.
Adhere to All Medication Schedules
Seniors who have been diagnosed with any condition that contributes to glaucoma such as diabetes and hypertension must follow their medication schedule properly. Studies show that untreated diabetes and high blood pressure can cause glaucoma and increase the risk of optic nerve damage. Both medical conditions can lead to blindness or severe vision changes if the resident doesn’t take their medications to manage their illnesses.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is paramount for all seniors and extends their lifespan. However, when reviewing foods and physical activities to avoid, the top selections are caffeine, saturated fats, and trans fats, as those foods contribute to underlying causes of glaucoma.
Anyone who has been diagnosed with glaucoma must also avoid weight lifting and yoga as these activities could increase blood pressure and improper drainage in the eyes. Doctors may restrict certain vitamins that may affect glucose levels and cause spikes in blood pressure, too.
Stick to All Treatment Requirements for Glaucoma
After a diagnosis of glaucoma, the residents must follow all instructions from their doctors. Most doctors start the treatment with prescription eye drops to control the pressure in the eye. The most common eye drops prescribed are Xalatan, Travanta Z, and Zioptan.
Physicians will also prescribe beta-blockers, alpha-adrenergic agonists, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, and cholinergic agents. Some seniors undergo laser therapy, filtering surgery, and the installation of drainage tubes. The residents visit their eye doctor according to their care plan.
Minimize the Risk of Falls and Accidents
Since glaucoma can cause vision impairments, residents may need assistance with activities of daily life. If the vision difficulties are causing mobility issues, a caregiver can help them with common tasks to prevent falls and injuries.
Senior communities have installations to help them get up and down the stairs or steps safely. Apartments can be equipped with products such as shower seats if the resident needs them to bathe without falling. By reviewing all the amenities available at assisted living homes in Los Angeles, CA, seniors can find out more about the benefits of moving into the community.
Seek Emergency Treatment As Needed
For residents who believe they may have acute open-angle glaucoma, emergency medical treatment is required. Caregivers can make arrangements for residents to get emergency services through their doctors or local hospitals. A fast trip to an eye care professional helps the person get the care they need to reduce the risk of partial or permanent blindness.
Terrific Homes for Seniors
Terraza of Cheviot Hills Assisted Living gives seniors a beautiful apartment and all the privacy they need. The community presents a wealth of amenities, including memory care, transportation, and meal preparation. Families and seniors can learn more about living in an assisted living community by setting up an appointment for a private tour now.
Seniors who choose to move into an assisted living community have access to beneficial services, including transportation and healthcare services. Since seniors are at a greater risk of developing glaucoma, the communities offer assistance getting to the eye doctor if the resident begins to experience any vision difficulties that indicate the eye disease. Routine eye examinations and testing are a must to determine if the resident has glaucoma, and some cases are emergent.
Assisted living opportunities can help residents stick to their medication schedules and provide meal preparation. If the residents are on a restricted diet because of a glaucoma diagnosis, the community accommodates their needs. By learning more about the amenities of these communities, seniors can find a wonderful place to live that offers exceptional amenities.
