Understanding Age-Related Eye Diseases: What You Should Know

Dr. Lauri Baldwin O.D.

Understanding Age-Related Eye Diseases: What You Should Know

As we grow older, our eyes, like the rest of our bodies, go through natural changes. While some shifts are harmless, others may signal the onset of age-related eye conditions that require professional care and monitoring. At Surfside Family Eye Care, Dr. Baldwin O.D. is committed to helping you protect your vision and maintain eye health at every stage of life.

Let’s take a closer look at four common age-related eye issues that we encounter in our practice:

Macular Degeneration: Central Vision Under Siege

What it is: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the macula, the part of your retina responsible for sharp central vision.

Warning signs:

• Difficulty recognizing faces

• Straight lines appear wavy

• A central dark or empty spot in your vision

What you can do: Early detection through routine retinal exams, dietary changes, and treatments with an ophthalmologist can help preserve your vision.

Cataracts: Clouding Your Clarity

What it is: A cataract is the clouding of your eye’s natural lens, often leading to blurry vision, glare sensitivity, and difficulty seeing at night.

Signs to watch for:

• Blurry or foggy vision

• Fading or yellowing of colors

• Halos around lights, especially at night

What you can do: Regular eye exams are key to monitoring progression.

Vitreous Floaters: Spot/Dots in Your Sight

What it is: Floaters are specks or strands that drift across your field of vision, caused by changes in the vitreous gel inside your eye.

Normal vs. concerning:

• Most floaters are benign and come with age

• Sudden increase or flashes of light may signal vitreous and/or retinal detachment, which requires immediate attention

What you can do: If floaters are interfering with your vision or seem unusual, an eye health evaluation can determine the best course of action.

Corneal Arcus: Rings of Change

What it is: Corneal arcus appears as a gray or white ring around the edge of the cornea. Although generally harmless in older adults, it can sometimes point to elevated cholesterol levels.

What you can do: While corneal arcus doesn’t affect vision directly, it’s worth discussing with your eye doctor, especially if you’re under 50, as it may prompt broader health screenings.

Your Eyes Deserve a Lifetime of Care

Aging gracefully includes looking after your vision. At Surfside Family Eye Care, we offer personalized eye exams, cutting-edge diagnostics, and a caring team that’s ready to walk beside you every step of the way. Whether you're noticing early changes or simply staying proactive, our goal is to keep your eyes clear, comfortable, and thriving.

Schedule your comprehensive eye exam with Dr. Baldwin O.D. today, and let’s ensure your future looks bright.

See You Soon

Surfside Family Eye Care Team