It is an indisputable fact that aging affects many different parts of the body and how they function. Your eyes and your vision are not exceptions. How much aging will affect your vision varies, but chances are very high that there will be some effect. Your optometrist in Santa Rosa Beach, FL, Dr. Lan O’Donnell of O’Donnell Eye Institute, helps to minimize the effects by providing the information you need to be proactive. 

See an optometrist when you can't read

 Presbyopia is one of the most common vision changes that happens as you age. It is the ability to see things that are close to you. How many times have you seen older adults being shown holding things at arm’s length? While this is a caricature, it is also true. You may think that using cheaters is the answer, but having glasses with your exact prescription is important for your vision. A visit to your optometrist in Santa Rosa Beach, FL can also lead to other conditions being diagnosed. 

Your night vision is becoming an issue

 As you age, you may find that you are not able to see as well at night as you used to. The lights of other vehicles may have halos, and you can find them blinding. One common cause of loss of night vision is cataracts. Cataracts are an eye condition that most often is a result of aging. Your optometrist can diagnose your cataracts and keep them under observation until it is time to have them removed. 

Your central vision is affected

 When you notice any change to your central vision, it is time to see your optometrist. Age-related macular degeneration is one of the major conditions that can cost you your vision.

Your eyes are dry

 Dry eyes are common as you age and the lack of tears can affect your vision. Your optometrist can make recommendations about how to treat your dry eyes and, if you need it, give you a prescription for artificial tears. 

Another serious eye condition, glaucoma, is also associated with aging, but it has no symptoms until it has progressed quite far, which makes it vital that you make a visit to your optometrist a regular part of your whole-body health care. 

Contact Dr. O’Donnell of O’Donnell Eye Institute when you need the care of an Optometrist in Santa Rosa Beach, FL. Our office can be reached at (850) 622-4000 to make an appointment or reach out through our website.