As we age, many changes occur in our bodies, including our eyes. One of the most common age-related changes is a deterioration in vision. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why eyes deteriorate in old age.

1. Changes to the Lens: The lens in the eye is responsible for focusing light onto the retina. As we age, the lens becomes less flexible and less able to change shape, which makes it harder to focus on objects that are up close. This is known as presbyopia, and it typically begins to occur around the age of 40.
2. Changes to the Retina: The retina is the part of the eye that sends visual information to the brain. As we age, the cells in the retina can begin to deteriorate, which can lead to a decrease in visual acuity and sensitivity to light. This can result in difficulty seeing in low light conditions and problems with contrast sensitivity.
3. Changes to the Vitreous: The vitreous is a gel-like substance that fills the eye. As we age, the vitreous can become more liquefied and can pull away from the retina, causing floaters and flashes of light. In some cases, the vitreous can also lead to the development of a posterior vitreous detachment, which can cause sudden vision loss.
4. Age-Related Eye Diseases: Certain eye diseases are more common in older adults, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. These conditions can cause a range of visual problems, from blurry vision to complete vision loss.
5. Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle factors can contribute to age-related changes in the eyes. Smoking, for example, has been linked to an increased risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. A poor diet and lack of exercise can also contribute to the development of age-related eye diseases.

While age-related changes to the eyes are inevitable, there are steps you can take to protect your vision as you age. Regular eye exams can help detect and manage any problems early on, while a healthy lifestyle can help prevent the development of age-related eye diseases. Additionally, wearing sunglasses and protective eyewear can help protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and injury.