Aging and Visual Impairment

Abstract

The incidence of visual impairment greatly increases with age. Diabetic retinopathy, senile cataracts, senile macular degeneration and glaucoma are the leading causes of blindness in elderly persons. Environmental modifications, such as levels of illumination and reduction of glare, can enhance an individual's ability to function in society. The nursing home population needs to pay attention to environmental factors as well as standardization of procedures for vision assessment. Much work is needed to develop programs to properly screen and treat the visual problems in elderly persons.