02/23/2026
According to the National Eye Institute, vision loss from eye disease is becoming a major public health concern. More than 40 million people are age 65 or older, and that number is expected to grow to more than 88 million by 2050. By that same year, the number of Americans with age-related eye diseases is expected to double, and the number of people living with low vision is projected to triple.
Encouraging older adults to have regular eye exams is the most important thing you can to do help them protect their sight. Even if they haven’t noticed any problems with their vision, it’s still important to remind them that although many age-related eye diseases don’t have any early symptoms, they can be
detected and treated early before noticeable vision loss occurs. Many lifestyle factors can also play an important role in protecting vision as we age. It’s important to remind older adults to take the following actions:
Eat a balanced diet that includes dark, leafy greens and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Do not smoke.
Keep diabetes under control.
Wear sunglasses and a brimmed hat outdoors.
Wear protective eyewear.
Know their family’s eye health hist.