January isn’t just the beginning of the new year, it’s also National Glaucoma Awareness Month. At Geras Home Care, we are passionate about sharing information that can help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life.
Known as the “silent thief of sight,” Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness. Because the condition rarely causes symptoms or pain in its early stages, many seniors and adults are unaware that they have the disease. In fact, some estimates suggest that up to 50% of the 3 million Americans living with Glaucoma do not know they have the condition.
Understanding Glaucoma, the “Silent Thief”
Glaucoma is a category of eye diseases that progressively damage the optic nerve, which is the link between the eye and the brain. It is typically caused by an abnormal accumulation of pressure inside the eye.
The two most common forms are:
- Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: This form of glaucoma is the most prevalent and most insidious. Similar to a drain that gradually becomes clogged, it slowly eats away at the peripheral vision.
- Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: In this case, the intraocular pressure builds up quickly. In addition to a rapid loss of vision, symptoms can include severe pain in the eyes, nausea, and seeing “halos” around lights. An emergency that requires immediate medical attention.
Who is at Risk for Glaucoma?
Glaucoma can affect anyone, but seniors are at a much greater risk once they reach the age of 60. The risk is even higher among African Americans and those over the age of 40, as well as those who have a close relative with glaucoma or have other medical conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
How Geras Home Care Helps You Maintain Your Vision
There is no cure for glaucoma at this time, but early detection, and continual treatment can often slow down or even stop the loss of vision. Our caregivers can help in a number of ways:
- Medication Reminders: Glaucoma is most often treated with daily prescription eye drops. Dexterity problems, or forgetfulness, can make these “life-saving drops” hard to use on time. Our caregivers gently and compassionately make sure that the correct dose is administered as prescribed.
- Transportation Services: Glaucoma-related vision changes can make driving an even greater challenge or even unsafe. We provide convenient transportation to and from ophthalmologist appointments so you never have to worry about missing a check-up.
- Home Safety & Fall Prevention: Glaucoma takes away peripheral vision which can lead to an increased risk of trips and falls. We can help with home safety assessments and make suggestions for better lighting and removing tripping hazards to help keep you safe.
- Assistance with Daily Living: If you are already beginning to lose vision, we provide support with reading, cooking, and grooming so seniors can continue to live with dignity and independence at home.
Act Now for Better Eye Health This January
The best New Year’s resolution that you can make for your eye health is to schedule a comprehensive dilated eye exam. It is the only way to detect glaucoma in its early stages before your sight is lost.
Ready to take that step? If you or a loved one in Southeast Pennsylvania need help managing a chronic condition or getting to and from medical appointments, we are here to help.
📞 Call (610) 355-2200 for a free in-home consultation