Elderly Care in Pacifica CA
Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in the United States, but can also be prevented if the elder makes healthy choices. It is a cluster of diseases that causes damage to the optic nerve in the 
Whether your loved one has been diagnosed with glaucoma or you are concerned they will develop this disease, the more you know about it, the better you or their caregiver can care for them”
Common Types of Glaucoma
- Open-angle Glaucoma. The elder’s vision will slowly become more narrow as their peripheral vision gets worse. This type of vision loss is comparable to looking at the world through a paper towel roll.
- Low-tension or normal-tension glaucoma. This form of glaucoma is much more difficult to detect because there is no alarming change to the intraocular pressure in the eye. But the damage done to the eye will cause a decrease in blood flow to the optic nerve.
- Angle-closure glaucoma. The iris will be pushed against the eye if the intraocular pressure becomes too high, causing the drainage to become blocked. An acute glaucoma attack will occur if the drainage becomes completely blocked, causing the elder to lose their vision very quickly.
- Open-angle glaucoma. This is the most common type of glaucoma, which causes a slow and painless loss of peripheral vision.
Detection
The doctor will be able to detect glaucoma by conducting a complete eye exam. This eye exam will include a visual field exam, visual acuity exam, tonometry, and a dilated eye exam.
Prevention
It is still unknown as to what can prevent glaucoma from developing, but there are some theories. Studies have been conducted that found omega-3 fatty acids to be effective at keeping the eyes strong. Traditional Western diets are low in this nutrient, whereas the fish-rich diets of Japan include high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. The lack of this nutrient in many Americans diet could be why glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in this country.
Treatment
There is still know cure for glaucoma, but there are some treatment options available to slow down the progression of vision loss. Some of the most popular medications include:
- Beta blockers
- Alpha-adrenergic agonists
- Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
With this information, you will be able to give your loved one the care they need.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional elderly care in Pacifica, CA, call the caring staff at Aviva In-Home Care. Call today: (415) 795-2203
Source: http://www.glaucoma.org/glaucoma/glaucoma-facts-and-stats.php
- Do You Need Help with Personal Care for Your Senior? - September 16, 2019
- Causes and Risk Factors for Shingles in the Elderly - September 12, 2019
- Five Reasons Your Senior Might Need a Daily Routine - September 5, 2019
