As we grow older, maintaining good eye and ear health becomes increasingly vital for overall well-being and quality of life. For older Australians, paying attention to these senses is crucial, as they play a significant role in how we interact with the world and enjoy our daily activities.
Changes to your vision and hearing are a natural part of the ageing process and commonly occur around your 40s, so it’s important to have your eyes and ears tested regularly, and with an early diagnosis most age-related conditions can be managed effectively.
Eye Health: Common Conditions and How to Address Them
Specsavers Optometrist Michelle Phan emphasises the importance of eye health, “Unless your vision has changed, you may not give your eyes much thought. Like any other medical condition, it’s good for you to be familiar with symptoms of common eye conditions so you know what to look out for, what you can do for early detection, and when to seek help.”
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults, primarily affecting the part of the eye responsible for sharp central vision. One of the most concerning aspects of AMD is that it often presents no symptoms in its early to moderate stages. Outside of ageing other risks associated with AMD are smoking and weight.
Optometrists recommend: AMD can be hereditary and people with a direct family history have a 50% chance of developing the condition, so it’s important to understand your family’s eye health history. AMD is a gradual, progressive condition and usually affects both eyes. Early detection through regular eye tests is key to managing AMD.
Cataracts
Cataracts, characterised by the clouding of the eye’s lens, are a common occurrence with aging. Symptoms include blurred, misty, or cloudy vision, difficulty seeing in dim or bright light, and the appearance of halos around lights. Cataracts can simply develop as you age but other factors like smoking, poor diet and excessive intake of alcohol can increase your risk.
Optometrists recommend: The only treatment that is proven to be effective for cataracts is surgery. This will usually be recommended if your loss of vision has a significant effect on your daily activities, such as driving or reading. If your cataracts are mild, stronger glasses and brighter reading lights may be helpful.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that affect the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain. The symptoms can present themselves in two ways, chronic glaucoma which develops slowly and is painless affecting outer edge vision working inwards and acute glaucoma which may develop rapidly with sudden painful pressure in the eye.
Optometrists recommend: Glaucoma can be treated but early detection is important. If left untreated, glaucoma can cause visual impairment and damage that cannot be reversed, so regular eye tests are essential.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Older Australians with diabetes are at risk of diabetic retinopathy, a condition where high blood sugar levels damage the retina. This can lead to vision loss if not properly managed.
Optometrists recommend: The best approach to managing diabetic retinopathy is through strict control of blood sugar levels and regular eye exams. Early detection allows for interventions such as laser therapy, injections, or surgery to prevent severe vision impairment.
Hearing Health: Understanding and Managing Age-Related Changes
Just as with eye health, maintaining ear health as you age is essential. Specsavers Senior Audiologist Kathryn Launchbury explains, “Hearing loss means missing the moments that matter. But for many people, it’s not until their hearing begins to deteriorate that they realise how important it is.”
Hearing Loss
Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) is common and can significantly impact communication and social interactions. The gradual nature of hearing loss often means it goes unnoticed until it begins to affect daily life.
Audiology Professionals recommend: Regular hearing checks are vital for monitoring hearing ability and catching any decline early. Hearing aids and other assistive devices can greatly improve hearing and, consequently, quality of life.
Tinnitus
Tinnitus, often described as ringing in the ears, is frequently associated with age-related hearing loss. It can vary in severity and can be a persistent nuisance for those who experience it.
Audiology Professionals recommend: Managing tinnitus involves reducing exposure to loud noises, managing stress, and in some cases, using sound therapy or hearing aids equipped with tinnitus-masking features.
Ear Infections and Balance Issues
Ear infections can affect anyone at any age and can lead to further medical complications. Older adults can be more prone to balance issues and dizziness from a wide range of causes.
Audiology Professionals recommend: Maintaining good ear hygiene and seeking medical help at the first sign of pain or infection may prevent further complications. It’s also important to speak to a medical professional to understand the cause of the issue and seek appropriate treatment.
Impacted Earwax
Impacted earwax is a common issue among adults who wear hearing aids, where earwax builds up and blocks the ear canal, leading to hearing loss and discomfort.
Audiology Professionals recommend: Steer clear of inserting anything into your ear for the purposes of ear cleaning. The ear has its own self-cleaning mechanisms which work best when left alone. If wax blockage does occur though, then professional ear wax removal is recommended.
Specsavers offers some simple yet effective tips to keep on top of your sight and hearing health:
- Regular Check-ups: Regular eye exams and hearing checks are essential to detect and manage issues early.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding smoking, and protecting your eyes and ears from excessive sunlight and loud noises are important preventive measures.
- Awareness of Symptoms: Stay vigilant and be aware of any changes in your vision or hearing, as early detection can lead to more effective treatment.
If you have noticed changes to your eyes, book an appointment with an Optometrist. The appointment includes an advanced 3D eye scan (O.C.T) at no additional charge. An eye test is bulk billed for all eligible Medicare card holders without optometry restrictions. Visit www.specsavers.com.au
If you have noticed changes to your hearing, book a free 15-minute Hearing Check with an Audiology Professional by visiting www.specsavers.com.au/hearing
If further testing is required after your free hearing check, a fee may apply.
Images: Specsavers
This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Specsavers
