The Kensington Sierra Madre is pleased to announce the next event in our Ask the Physician series, “Ask a Physician Part III: Insight on Age-Related Macular Degeneration, Cataracts & Glaucoma.”
This engaging and informative event will cover essential insights into common age-related eye conditions, including macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma.
Hosted by The Kensington Sierra Madre with Dr. Tony Chahine, a distinguished optometrist and expert in vision care, this free event will provide expert insights on AMD prevention, early detection, and proactive steps to protect long-term eye health.
Meet Our Expert
Dr. Tony Chahine is a distinguished optometrist and a 1995 graduate of the UC Berkeley School of Optometry. Dr. Chahine provides comprehensive eye care for patients of all ages, from infants as young as six months to adults.
He is experienced with the latest advancements in vision correction technology, offering both surgical solutions such as laser refractive surgery and non-surgical options, including specialized wavefront eyeglass lenses. His commitment to precision and personalized care has earned him a reputation for excellence in the field of optometry.
Keep reading for more information on AMD and tactics for prevention.
AMD is a serious issue for older loved ones
Age-related macular degeneration is a progressive eye disease—affecting the part of the retina responsible for central vision.
AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in America for those 60 and older, with nearly 20 million Americans over 40 living with this disease.
Those suffering from vision loss caused by AMD often find a significant impact on daily activities, independence, and overall quality of life.
That’s why understanding how to reduce the risk of AMD is essential for healthy aging today.
The Kensington Sierra Madre aims to help families learn practical strategies to lower the risk of AMD, answer common AMD questions, and emphasize the importance of proactive senior health planning.
Understanding age-related macular degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD for short) is a degenerative eye condition that affects the part of the eye responsible for sharp, central vision.
There are two main types of AMD:
- Dry AMD (non-exudative): The most common form, accounting for 85-90% of cases. It occurs when the macula gradually thins with age, leading to blurred or distorted vision.
- Wet AMD (exudative): This is the more severe form—abnormal blood vessels will grow under the retina, leading to sudden and severe vision loss.
AMD won’t cause complete blindness but can significantly impact reading, driving, and recognizing faces.
Risk factors include age, genetics, smoking, high blood pressure, and poor nutrition.
Can you stop AMD?
While AMD cannot be reversed, its progression can often be slowed or prevented through proactive lifestyle choices.
Early intervention and healthy habits can make a difference in maintaining long-term eye health as we age.
Ways to prevent age-related macular degeneration
Many of the ways to prevent age-related AMD are the same as used to avoid other common age-related conditions such as dementia and Alzheimers.
1. Prioritize regular eye exams
Routine comprehensive eye exams are crucial for early detection of AMD. The earlier AMD is diagnosed, the more effective treatments can be toward slowing progression.
Annual eye exams are recommended for those 50 and older, even with no symptoms. Early AMD often has no noticeable symptoms, making regular checkups essential.
2. Adopt a nutrient-rich diet
Studies show that a well-balanced diet can be key to AMD prevention.
Essential eye-healthy nutrients include:
- Lutein and zeaxanthin: Spinach and kale are two veggies that contain these nutrients.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Fat-rich fish like salmon and yummy walnuts are good examples of these food types.
- Vitamins C and E: Found in citrus fruits, nuts, and seeds
- Zinc: Found in lean meats, dairy, and beans
For those at risk of AMD, eye-specific supplements containing these nutrients can help slow disease progression.
3. Maintain a healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle supports both overall wellness and eye health.
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity improves circulation, ensuring the retina receives proper oxygen and nutrients.
- Manage blood pressure and cholesterol: High blood pressure and cholesterol can damage retinal blood vessels, increasing AMD risk.
- Control diabetes: Diabetics are at an increased risk of diabetic retinopathy and AMD—managing blood sugar levels is very important for preserving vision.
4. Protect your eyes from UV and blue light
Long-term UV exposure and blue light can contribute to eye damage and macular degeneration.
- Wear UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors to reduce sun damage to the retina.
- Reduce screen time or use blue light-filtering lenses to limit digital eye strain.
5. Stop smoking and limit alcohol consumption
One of the factors you can modify for AMD risk is smoking. Smokers are four times more likely to develop AMD.
Smoking reduces oxygen supply to the macula, accelerating vision loss. Quitting smoking can significantly lower AMD risk, even in older adults.
Excessive alcohol consumption may also deplete essential nutrients needed for eye health, so moderation is advised.
Why proactive planning with The Kensington Sierra Madre matters
We always want to emphasize the importance of proactivity in senior care.
Transitioning to an assisted living community or into memory care is much easier on everyone if your loved one is still in a condition to participate in the decision and enjoy all that senior living has to offer.
Planning for vision and overall health in senior living
Part of the caregiving journey means careful planning for the future to maintain your loved one’s independence and quality of life.
Most age-related conditions can be handled much easier if you act before any urgency arises. Proper planning allows for a smoother transition into specialized care options if needed.
The Kensington Sierra Madre provides a holistic approach to senior wellness, ensuring residents receive:
- Personalized care tailored to vision and cognitive health
- Assistance with daily activities while promoting independence
- Access to wellness programs that support overall health and longevity
How The Kensington Sierra Madre supports senior well-being
Eye health is just one part of resident well-being for which we strive to offer holistic care.
The Kensington Sierra Madre offers:
- Vision-friendly accommodations with proper lighting and accessibility
- On-site health and wellness services, including specialists in eye health and aging
- Customized nutrition plans incorporating AMD-preventing nutrients
Being proactive about senior health and memory care ensures residents and families are prepared for long-term well-being.
Preventing age-related macular degeneration with The Kensington Sierra Madre
While AMD cannot be reversed, there are effective ways to slow its progression and reduce risk. Through regular eye exams, a healthy diet, lifestyle modifications, and proper eye protection, seniors can maintain better vision for years to come.
Planning is essential for aging well
Caregiving for an aging family member is not easy. Contact our team today if you want to learn more about how life at The Kensington Sierra Madre can improve your aging loved one’s quality of life.
With our dedicated three-tier memory care program and regular life-enrichment events, every team member at The Kensington Sierra Madre strives to help our residents make the most of their golden years.
And don’t forget to register for our free event today! Take a proactive step toward protecting your loved one’s vision and overall well-being!