Westminster Free Clinic
Dickerson Hall, United Methodist Church
1000 E. Janss Rd.
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
805-241-8366
www.westminsterclinic.org
Conejo Free Clinic
80 East Hillcrest Dr.; Suite # 102
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
805-497-3575
www.conejofreeclinic.org/
Coast Caregiver Resource Center (CCRC)
1528 Chapala; Suite 302
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
805-962-3600
(for a family consultant in your area 800-443-1263)
Ventura County Public Health
Senior Case Management
2125 Knoll Dr., Suite 200
805-654-7600
When you call these services - mention that you found their name on our website - Please help us to strengthen our network and continue to HELP OUR SENIORS in finding reliable "no-scam" services and products in the local area!!
Your Sight as Become Older
Please do not be discouraged is you experience a gradual failing of sight as you age! It's true you'll be less able to focus on close objects as you get older, but most people should have good sight into their 80s or 90s. A number of eye problems are more likely to occur as you get older. The following common conditions may occur.
Common conditions
Floaters: Small, dark, floating marks on your sight - they are usually harmless, although may be a nuisance. However, if they change or you experience bright flashing lights at the same time, go to your eye doctor immediately, because these signs may be indicators of more serious problems.
Cataracts: Cloudiness of the lens in the eye. Cataracts affect approx. 70% of people over 85. Cataracts occur as a result of ageing but are more common after trauma or if you suffer from diabetes.
Cataracts cannot be treated by drugs. Only surgery is effective. Cataract surgery involves removing the affected lens and possibly replacing it with an implant lens.
Glaucoma:
Glaucoma is caused by an increase in the eye pressure. If Glaucoma is untreated, the retina and nerves become damaged and sight worsens. Some older people experience pain and redness.
Glaucoma can be treated by drugs that lower the pressure. Surgery may also be necessary to help fluid in the eye drain correctly.
Age-related macular degeneration: This is a change in the center of the eye causing slow loss of central vision. In most cases it isn't treatable, but it doesn't usually lead to complete loss of vision.
Other causes: Damage to the fine blood vessels in the eye can cause loss of vision. Certain conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, make this damage more likely. For this reason, it's important to keep chronic conditions well managed.
What can you do?: If you notice your vision is deteriorating, it's important to visit your doctor or local eye hospital. The eye is a sensitive organ and prolonged problems can cause severe visual loss, even blindness.
How to improve your sight: You can make the most of the sight you have in the following ways:
- Make sure you have good lighting in your home. Generally, you need brighter lighting as you get older.
- Use low-vision aids, such as magnifying glasses, large print books, talking books and Braille stickers.
- Mobility training and guide dogs are a valuable source of help to many people.
- Talk to your doctor about support, training and counseling.
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