Two of my friends have just
had cataract surgery and a third has rapidly progressing macular
degeneration. Despite modern technology
the thoughts of deteriorating vision
looms large in the life of many seniors. Make annual visits to your eye doctor a
priority, even if you are on a strict budget, because early detection and
treatment can keep some disorders at bay. There are some things that are more important
than money and being able to see is one of them.
In many instances people
with low or failing vision can still
manage very nicely. Tips included in
Elder Care for Dummies by Rachel Zukerman are worth thinking about. She
points out that sometimes it is the little things that can make a difference.
Consider painting the woodwork around doorways or painting steps in bright
colors to make them stand out and easier to see.
You can’t go wrong with
extra lights on stairs and in reading areas.
More lamps and increased wattage in the lamps you have may help. It is a known fact that older people need
three times more light than a younger person does. Evenly distribute the light so your eyes
aren’t continually trying to adjust as they shift from one area to the next. Purchase nightlights that come on automatically
at dusk and use them generously throughout the house.
Keep a small flashlight on
your person to use when entering a dark theater or a dimly lighted restaurant. This
just makes good sense. I find negotiating the stairs in a darkened theater
quite scary. Call for restaurant
reservations and request a well lit table.
Leave candle light dining to the young romantics.
When it is time for a new
television, splurge on a new large screen set with an easy to use remote
control. Invest in magnifying devices
for reading. One of my friends got a
second hand reader machine and is delighted that she can do hand work as well
as read with it. Borrow large print
books or audios from the library or from The National Library Service for the
Blind and Physically Handicapped. There
are many services available for people who are blind or have low vision. It is amazing how well people can adapt to
their losses. You quickly learn that if you are going to continue enjoying life
you have to make the most of what you have, even if it means replacing old
pleasures with new ones.
Leave a Reply