With age, cataracts can begin clouding the eyes and leading to issues such as poor sight and sensitivity to light. A medical professional may suggest surgery that involves removing the affected section and replacing it with an implant. Here are four benefits of cataract surgery for your aging parent:
Improves Vision
When the clear lens inside the eye becomes cloudy due to cataracts, your loved one might not see as clearly. During cataract surgery, a qualified surgeon removes the cloudy lens and replaces it with an artificial lens. A new lens helps light focus properly onto the retina, which improves the ability to see in lighted areas. Once your parent has healed from surgery, their vision should quickly improve, reducing dependence on glasses or contact lenses. By improving their vision through this treatment, your loved one can move around and perform activities with more independence. This may also have the added benefit of reducing the risk of accidents, such as falls.
Relieves Eye Strain
Due to cataracts, eyes could have difficulty focusing on light effectively, making them work harder to see. Your parent may also feel their eyes getting tired quickly or experience more frequent headaches and discomfort. With an artificial lens, it should be easier to do things such as watching television and reading books. After the procedure, some patients can also perform different tasks under low light conditions. This means your parent should not have to squint or strain to see in dimly lit areas. Less squinting means that the pressure on their eyes is reduced.
Enhances Independence
As cataracts develop and impact eyesight, activities like cooking, puzzles, or shopping could become more difficult for your again parent. Driving, particularly at night, can become less safe as cataracts diminish eyesight. The ability to better see means they can more comfortably attend gatherings, talk to friends or neighbors, and enjoy events. After the cataract surgery, your parent may not need to rely as much on assistive devices to read. Tasks such as caring for themselves and maintaining hygiene can also improve after their vision is clearer.
Prevents Further Complications
If left untreated, cataracts can result in other eye health issues, such as glaucoma and retinal damage. By removing the cataract and replacing affected areas with an artificial lens, it reduces the pressure in the eye. This treatment also allows the retina to make better use of clear light, preventing further damage and distortion. In severe cases, a cataract may lead to total vision loss. By addressing cataracts early through surgery, the risk of losing sight completely is minimized. An ophthalmologist monitors patients to determine if there are underlying eye health problems that could worsen cataracts.
Book an Appointment for Cataract Surgery
If your loved one has blurry vision or needs more light to see than normal, they could have cataracts. A medical professional performs cataract surgery to replace the damaged section and help vision. To improve your aging parent’s quality of life, call a trusted clinic today and make an appointment.