Are you currently caring for an elderly parent who squints while watching TV, keeps bumping into stationary objects or constantly trips and falls-down? If so, they may be suffering from vision loss. At some point most seniors start gradually losing their vision because of the aging process itself. But if your mom or dad’s poor vision seems more pronounced, it could be due to an underlying eye condition that can quickly place their health and wellbeing at risk. Fortunately, there are several proven ways to assist an aging parent with vision loss, starting with these.

What Causes Poor Vision in Seniors?

Again, diminishing eyesight occurs commonly as someone grows older. In addition to aging, the most common reasons why an elderly person experiences vision loss include:

  • Glaucoma
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Macular degeneration

What are the Signs of Vision Loss?

For whatever reason(s), mom or dad’s vision may start deteriorating to the point you begin noticing signs like:

  • Squinting or tilting their head while reading or watching TV
  • Missing objects when reaching for them
  • Bumping frequently into objects or knocking them over
  • Falling a lot or walking hesitantly
  • If they still drive, a lot of fresh dents and dings on their car

If your parent is exhibiting any of these poor eyesight behaviors, it’s best to take them to an ophthalmologist for a complete vision exam. Once the doctor has determined the cause, you’ll have a better idea of what you’re up against.

Helping a Senior Adjust to Poor Eyesight

Correcting mom or dad’s poor eyesight could be as simple as getting them a new set of prescription glasses. If the vision loss is related to diabetic retinopathy or glaucoma, there are various medications available that can slow the disease’s progression. But if it’s an irreversible eye problem, some lifestyle modifications will be necessary. When your parent’s vision loss is permanent, here are some reliable ways to help them continue living comfortably at home:

Add More Lighting

Add specialized lamps and bulbs to keep their home’s surroundings well-lit without also creating distracting glare. Make sure your parent has adequate lighting for all their favorite activities, like reading, crocheting or crafts. Add some clip-on lights near their couch or bed, and then install some under-the-counter lighting in the kitchen or other tasking areas.

Low Vision-Assistance Devices

There are now many high-tech, vision-assistance devices available that allow the elderly to see images and words more clearly. From phones, TV remotes and computer keyboards with oversized buttons, to large-print books and computer screen magnifiers, there are a plethora of vision-assistance tools out there that can help make your parent’s life more comfortable.

Ask for the Car Keys

If mom or dad still drive, respectfully ask them to turn over the car keys for their own safety and wellbeing. Giving up one’s driving privileges is a major blow to their independence, so make sure that your parent has reliable transportation for getting to their doctor’s appointments and other activities.

Minimize Fall Risks

Go around the home and look for potential trip hazards, like throw rugs, poorly lit stairs or pieces of furniture. Reorganize or completely remove dangerous items and highlight tricky stairways with brighter lighting and glow strips. Try to create wider, more open walkways inside the home and then carefully point out the changes to your loved one to minimize confusion.

Find a Low-Vision Specialist

A low-vision specialist has the experience and knowledge to create an individualized plan to help mom or dad adjust to their vision changes. By using a process known as “vision rehabilitation”, a specialist will devise a program for your parent that includes the use of low-vision aids, along with tips for more safely navigating around their home.

Reliable In-Home Care for Seniors with Poor Vision

Assisting an elderly parent with poor vision can be challenging when you’re busy or live far away. When you need some assistance, call Seniors Prefer Homecare. As a fully licensed and insured home care agency, all our caregivers are well trained to deliver the specialized care that seniors with vision loss deserve. While serving as an extended family in your loved one’s home, our carefully screened aides can also perform duties like personal hygiene, light housework, meals, medication reminders, transportation and companionship.

And, all our family trusted services can be individually combined in an affordable package that’ll restore your peace of mind! To learn more about Seniors Prefer Homecare, or to schedule a FREE, in-home consultation for a senior in Tuscaloosa or Huntsville, AL, today, please visit: www.seniorspreferhomecare.com now.