According to the World Health Organization, glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world. There’s currently no cure for glaucoma, but seniors can reduce their risk of developing this condition by making some lifestyle changes, focusing on their health, and enhancing their quality of life. Here’s a closer look at some of the most effective ways seniors can prevent glaucoma.
1. Exercise Safely & Often
Many studies have shown regular exercise can lower blood pressure and reduce eye pressure. However, some low-impact exercises such as yoga can increase blood pressure in the retina and cornea if a senior isn’t careful. That’s why your loved one should only carry out movements that keep the head above the heart. Riding a stationary bike, walking, hiking, and swimming are all excellent choices.
Seniors with limited mobility may require assistance with exercises. Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of in-home care. You can rely on InCasa Home Care Services to provide an individualized care plan to meet your elderly loved one’s unique care needs. Our caregivers help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and we offer mentally stimulating activities that can boost cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia.
2. Lower Insulin Levels
When insulin spikes, it causes blood pressure to rise. Even after lowering insulin levels, it could take hours for blood pressure to stabilize. Seniors who are at risk for developing glaucoma should try to keep their insulin levels consistent throughout the day.
Eating fewer simple carbohydrates is one of the easiest ways to prevent insulin spikes and crashes. If your loved one cannot control insulin levels through dietary changes, he or she may need to speak with a doctor about being tested for prediabetes.
3. Stay Hydrated & Drink Slowly
Hypertension is extremely common among dehydrated seniors, but they should also avoid drinking large amounts of water in a short period. Drinking more than a few cups of water in a single sitting can quickly increase blood pressure and eye pressure. As an alternative, seniors should keep containers of water with them at all times and take small sips throughout the day.
Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality at-home care. Edmonton families trust InCasa Home Care Services to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably.
4. Avoid Stimulants
A stimulant is any substance that increases the heart rate or forces the body to overproduce adrenaline. The most common stimulant in the world is caffeine, but many people consume dozens of different stimulants each day without even realizing it.
Some medications produce side effects such as an increased heart rate, and it can be dangerous to mix them with caffeine. There are also many natural herbal supplements that have an impact on blood pressure. Before taking any medications or supplements, your loved one should speak with a doctor and discuss the possible side effects
5. Use Prescription Eye Drops
After your loved one has been tested for glaucoma, the eye doctor might prescribe eye drops to reduce inflammation in the eyes. For these eye drops to work correctly, they must be taken exactly as prescribed. The eye doctor might ask your loved one to use them at very specific times, and he or she must adhere to those suggestions to slow the progression of glaucoma.
Glaucoma is one of the many health conditions that can affect your loved one’s daily activities. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of Home Care. InCasa Home Care Edmonton Services is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. To create a comprehensive in-home care plan for your loved one, call us today.
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