Seniors and Glaucoma: What Seniors and Caregivers Should Know

Vancouver Senior Health  |  December 13, 2023

What Every Senior and Caregiver in Vancouver, BC Needs to Know About Glaucoma and Senior Eye Health

Seniors and Glaucoma | Glaucoma, a condition that can harm the optic nerve and cause vision loss, is the second most common cause of blindness. As pressure in the eyes gradually increases, up to 40 percent of vision may be compromised without detection. Fortunately, prompt intervention can safeguard against significant vision impairment.

Why Do Some Seniors Develop Glaucoma?

At the front of the eye lies the anterior chamber, where a clear fluid circulates constantly to nourish the surrounding tissues. This fluid exits through an open angle where the cornea and iris meet, passing through a sponge-like meshwork acting as a drain before leaving the eye. However, if this drainage process is hindered and the fluid accumulates, it can lead to increased pressure within the eye that may harm the optic nerve and cause vision loss. Hence, regulating this pressure is crucial for maintaining healthy eyesight.

Having high eye pressure does not necessarily mean that an individual will develop glaucoma. Each person’s tolerance for elevated eye pressure varies. Undergoing a thorough dilated eye exam can assist your eye care provider in determining the appropriate level of eye pressure for you.

Most Common Types of Glaucoma in Seniors

Open-angle Glaucoma: The most prevalent form of glaucoma is open-angle glaucoma, which impacts around 3 million individuals in the United States. It is characterized by a gradual, painless decline in peripheral vision, caused by blockages in the eye’s drainage canals. The resulting vision impairment resembles the view through a paper towel tube. Symptoms and warning signs are typically absent, and vision loss may go unnoticed for a long period. Fortunately, medication is effective in treating this type, particularly when detected early and promptly addressed.

Low-Tension or Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Low-tension or normal-tension glaucoma can cause optic nerve damage and narrowed side vision even when eye pressure is within the normal range. While medications that reduce eye pressure by at least 30 percent may slow down the progression of this condition in some patients, it may not have the same effect for others. That’s why a thorough medical history is crucial in identifying any potential risk factors, including low blood pressure. In cases where no risk factors are found, treatment options remain similar to those for open-angle glaucoma.

Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Angle-closure glaucoma is a type of glaucoma where the fluid in the front of the eye cannot escape due to a blockage caused by part of the iris. This leads to a rapid rise in eye pressure, causing symptoms such as intense pain, nausea, redness, and blurred vision. If you experience these signs, it is crucial to seek emergency medical treatment right away. Left untreated, the condition can result in permanent blindness within just one or two days. Fortunately, with prompt laser surgery and medication, the blockage can typically be cleared and sight preserved.

There are also rare types of glaucoma that can affect seniors. In addition to the more common forms, seniors may also develop less common types of glaucoma. One such type, called pigmentary glaucoma, involves the flaking off of iris pigment which can then block the meshwork and impede fluid drainage. This particular type poses a significant threat to visits throughout a lifetime. Furthermore, glaucoma caused by trauma can occur as a result of severe eye injury, exposure to chemicals, or penetration into the eye.

What Seniors Can Do About Their Glaucoma?

At this time, there is no known cure for glaucoma. Nevertheless, there are options such as medication or surgery that can aid in slowing down or halting any additional vision deterioration. The course of treatment will vary depending on the specific type of glaucoma a person is dealing with.

Throughout treatment, certain medications may become ineffective or have adverse effects when combined with other prescriptions. Having a physician oversee the management of glaucoma and its corresponding medications is important. For those undergoing treatment for glaucoma, it is crucial to consistently take the prescribed medication each day.

Research has proven that identifying and treating glaucoma in its early stages is the most effective method of managing the disease. It is essential to undergo regular eye examinations with dilated pupils by a qualified eye specialist. Starting at the age of 40, it is recommended to have an exam every two to four years, increasing to annual exams after 55. Individuals over 50 with a family history of glaucoma should receive full annual exams.

Comfort Keepers® is the Best Senior Home Care Provider in Vancouver, BC

When it comes to arranging senior home care services for a loved one in or around Vancouver, Comfort Keepers is the preferred choice for many families. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care, End of Life Care, Respite Care, and much more! 

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver Can Help Seniors and Glaucoma with Interactive Caregiving™

Comfort Keepers®’s trained caregivers help provide senior clients with the highest quality of life possible to keep them happy and healthy at home. Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs).

Our philosophy is to elevate the human spirit and our caregivers will be there every step of the way to ensure your loved one has a better quality of life. Personal and empathetic care is care that starts in the heart, and it allows us to meet our client’s exact needs. Learn more about our unique service which offers personal care, companionship care, palliative care, and end-of-life care by contacting the Comfort Keepers Vancouver office.

Comfort Keepers® Brings You The Best Home Care Assistance Right Where You Live.

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver is proud to provide home care throughout Vancouver that keeps seniors safe in their homes. We provide home care for the seniors of Vancouver and the surrounding areas of Burnaby, Langley, Maple Ridge, and Richmond please call (604) 689-8609. 

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver has been accredited with Exemplary Standing with Accreditation Canada. Accreditation is an intensive process in which industry experts examine an organization’s processes, policies, and procedures against a set of quality standards. To achieve accredited status, Comfort Keepers offices met or exceeded the rigorous standards for Home Care companies, as defined by Accreditation Canada. 

References:
AgingCare.com. “Glaucoma Can Steal 40% of Vision Before the Person Notices” by Marlo Sollitto. Web.2016.
A Place for Mom. “Glaucoma In Seniors: Symptoms & Care” by Jeannette Franks, Ph.D. Web. 2013.
Glaucoma Research Foundation.“Glaucoma Facts and Stats.” Web. 2016.

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