October is National Blindness Awareness Month, and now that the days are getting shorter, it’s a good time for seniors and their families to think about things they can do to help seniors protect their sight. Most seniors will have some vision changes as they get older, but there are many things that seniors can do to preserve the sight they have for as long as possible.
It’s absolutely essential for seniors to get regular eye exams. Getting an eye exam in the fall and one in the spring is a good way for seniors to make sure that they aren’t losing any vision during the darkest part of the year. To help protect their vision during the fall and winter, seniors should:
Change To Natural Light Bulbs
Natural light bulbs mimic the full spectrum of natural daylight. They offer bright natural light that can help seniors see better and fight seasonal affective disorder and seasonal depression. Seniors with senior home care should ask their senior home care providers to change the light bulbs in floor lamps and other lights around the house to natural daylight bulbs.
It’s a good idea to skip the natural light bulbs in the bedroom, though. A natural daylight bulb in a bedroom lamp can make it harder for seniors to sleep at night by disrupting their Circadian rhythm.
Add More Lighting
Seniors who live in homes with lots of dark corners may need more lights when the days are short. A great way to add light to the places that need it most is to use LED light strips. These strips have adhesive backing, so they can be applied anywhere. Also, the lights have sensors, so they automatically go on when it’s dark and turn off when it’s light. They can be placed on stairs, along hallways, and above or under cabinets to light up areas where seniors are likely to trip or fall.
Lighten Up During The Day
Seniors should take advantage of sunlight when they can get it. During the cool weather, some seniors may want to keep shades and curtains shut to keep out the cold. But it’s a better option to put window insulation over the windows. This will keep the cold at bay and keep the shades and blinds open during the day when possible. That natural sunlight is great for seniors and can help their eyes stay strong and healthy.
Wear Sunglasses Outdoors
When seniors do go outdoors in the cool weather, they should still wear sunglasses. Cold wind, debris from falling leaves, and allergens can get in your senior parent’s eyes. With this in mind, they should protect their eyes with sunglasses. The rays of the sun are just as intense when the weather is cool. So it’s just as important for seniors to wear sunglasses when it’s chilly as it is when it’s warm. If the sun is out, seniors should wear sunglasses.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Senior Home Care in Goodyear, AZ, please contact the caring staff at Blessings for Seniors Companion Care at (623) 594-0819.
Blessings for Seniors makes it possible for older adults to enjoy the comforts of their own home for as long as possible. We offer a customized care plan that includes services such as; Hourly Senior Home Care, 24-Hour Home Care, Dementia Care, Personal Care and Companion Care. Also ask us about our Veterans’ Home Care program.
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