Mother’s Day is just around the corner on May 12 th 2024, and it is a great opportunity to show appreciation for the special women in our lives. However, women’s eye health should also be given special attention because they are more susceptible to blindness and visual impairment in comparison to men.
Here are a few reasons why women should get regular eye exams:
– Of all cases of blindness two-thirds, occur in women.
– Loss of vision can have a negative impact on quality of life, making it challenging to live independently, contribute to society, and enjoy life to the fullest.
– Women live longer, which increases their risk of developing age-related eye diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, and cataracts.
– Women are more likely to suffer from autoimmune conditions that can cause visual side effects.
– Hormonal changes that occur with aging can also affect women’s eyes, making them more prone to conditions like dry eye.
– Women often prioritize taking care of their families and loved ones over their own health, which can lead to neglecting regular eye exams.

To support good eye health, Prevent Blindness recommends the following steps for women:
– Quit smoking
– Take supplements as approved by a medical professional
– Be aware of any family history of eye disease
– Expectant mothers should be aware of vision changes during pregnancy
– Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant and have been diagnosed with diabetes should get a full, dilated eye exam.
– Wear UV-blocking sunglasses and a brimmed hat when outdoors
– Use cosmetics and contact lenses safely
– Schedule regular dilated eye exams
Up to 80 percent of blindness and visual impairment are preventable, so educating ourselves and others on eye health is crucial to preserving our sight. Early detection and treatment can help preserve vision and quality of life.
As people age, vision impairment can lead to serious issues such as depression, loneliness, and a higher risk of falls. Fortunately, there are resources available to learn more about maintaining healthy eyes. Visit the National Eye Institute or the American Academy of Ophthalmology website

Sources:
www.nia.nih.gov
www.aao.org
www.ucihealth.org

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