What is a Cataract?
Put simply, a cataract is a cloudiness that presents itself in the lens in the eye and causes issues with vision. The majority of cataracts issues are associated with aging. Nearly half of seniors will experience issues with cataracts at some point in their life.
The lens of an eye is mostly made up of water and protein. When the protein clumps together, it can cloud a part of the lens causing a cataract to develop. Cataracts can appear in one or both eyes.
Cataracts Symptoms
The most common symptoms associated with cataracts in seniors include:
• Blurred or clouding vision
• Night vision impairment
• Double vision
• Changes in the way colors are viewed
• Sensitivity to light
If any of these symptoms develop in you or a loved one, it’s important to visit an eye care professional for proper diagnosis. There are a variety of vision problems that have the same symptoms, so it’s vital to ensure you are getting the right diagnosis and treatment.
Cataracts Treatment
There are several forms of cataracts that a person can develop, and they may require different forms of treatment.
• Secondary cataract – When a cataract develops from a secondary source, such as a recent surgery, diabetes, or glaucoma
• Traumatic cataract – When a cataract develops due to some type of eye trauma
• Congenital cataract – When a cataract develops from birth or childhood
• Radiation cataract – When a cataract develops after radiation exposure
A mild cataracts issue is usually treated with a few adjustments to daily living. Seniors may be required to get new eyeglasses, use a magnifying lens, sunglasses or brighter lighting. Typically, surgery is not the first course of action. When other less-invasive options have been exhausted, then cataract removal might become a necessity. Cataracts surgery is one of the most common procedures performed in the U.S. It is a safe and effective solution to cataracts in seniors.
Finding Help at McGregor PACE
McGregor PACE is a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. Under the PACE program, we provide services that address the medical, rehabilitative, social, and personal care needs of older adults.
If you or a loved one are suffering from cataracts symptoms or vision impairment, contact us today or call 216.791.3580 to learn more about our offerings for seniors, 55 years of age and older. We are ready and willing to help!