The Visual Field test is a measurement of the peripheral or side vision. It is important in testing for eye diseases such as glaucoma, retinal problems, and other problems such as brain tumors or damage from certain medications which can build up in the body. This test is also instrumental in showing visual improvement for medically necessary eyelid surgery.
This field test is a computerized threshold perimetry, which reports the sensitivity to light at a given location and converts into patterns in shades of gray. Each time the patient sees a light a button is pushed and is documented by the computer. Areas of normal appear white and the shades become increasingly gray as sensitivity is reduced. Black indicates areas of total loss.
The patient is seated in front of a lighted screen set at certain levels with one eye patched. The technician moves a handle attached to a projector from outside the patient’s vision toward the center until the patient sees the light. The patient indicates seeing the light by pushing a button. The technician plots the point on the visual field results indicating where vision is present. This test is often used to show visual improvement with the eyelids taped and untaped for medically necessary eyelid surgery.
Ophthalmoscopy is a method of examining the back of the eye in great detail, using a special lens. It requires the patient’s eye be dilated. The doctor will then make a detail diagram of any abnormalities so that this can be followed from visit to visit and document any changes in the eye.
A special viewing method in which a lens with a mirror is placed in front of the eye to enable the doctor to examine a part of the eye which could not otherwise be seen. This is helpful in patients who have glaucoma or high pressures in the eye and allows the doctor to see the angles where the fluid of the eye drains out.
A method of photographing any abnormalities which allows the doctor to document any changes of the skin, face, or eyelids. It is especially helpful in documenting any blockage of vision by brows or excess skin and changes in lesions.
Method of photographing the back of the eye using a special camera with a high powered lens. It requires the patient to be dilated and is important because it documents any abnormalities which can be monitored from year to year
With this single device doctors can obtain different measurements of the eye such as:
This is a computerized refraction that measures the eye multiple times to determine the most accurate prescription for glasses available today
Provides a color detail mapping of the cornea and allows early detection of corneal disease such as Keratoconus
Measures the corneal curvature and is crucial in determining astigmatism in patients for glasses, contact lenses and Intraocular Lens Implants
This specialized piece of equipment is used to obtain images of the retina or the optic disc, it uses laser for the measurement.
Progressive technology has produced a non-invasive procedure for imaging the macula. The images displayed are layers of the macula, and a mapping of the retina that provides multiple measurements for the doctor to evaluate and compare
This is a multi-scale 3-D graph of the optic nerve that is extremely important for detecting and tracking Glaucoma. Early detection is so important because Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness due to the gradual damage to the retinal nerve fiber layer
This is a non-contact (nothing touches the eye and drops are not required) highly accurate piece of equipment that measures the length of the eye for future cataract surgery needs. The Intraocular Lens power is then determined by using the length of measurements combined with the corneal curvature. The lens power and design is then chosen to best meet your individual needs
Color plates are used to determine color deficiency in patients. Patients may have been color deficient since birth, or as a result of certain medications or diseases. The test is performed one eye at a time, using a total of 14 plate, two of which can be easily seen for comparison purposes.
This test measures the intra-ocular pressure or pressure inside the eye. There are different devices that can be used for this measurement, depending on the situation. This is an important test for Glaucoma, and determines if there is a build-up of fluid within the eye. This fluid build-up can damage the eye.
The glasses and/or contact lenses prescription is discovered by performing this test. During this test the doctor is able to determine if a patient is nearsighted, farsighted, presbyopic or if they have astigmatism. The technician or doctor may ask “Which lens looks better lens one or lens two… or do they appear the same?”
Our eyes are incredibly precious, yet its easy to take our vision for granted until problems arise. Lets focus on proactive steps to maintain and improve our eye health. Here are some tips to keep your vision in top shape:Schedule Regular Eye Exams:One of the best ways to safeguard your vision is by scheduling regular eye exams. Comprehensive eye exams can detect vision problems early on, allowing for prompt treatment and prevention of further complications. Make it a priority to see your eye doctor at least once a year, even if you dont currently wear glasses or contact lenses.Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays: Just like your skin, your eyes can be damaged by the suns harmful UV rays. Whenever youre outdoors, especially on bright, sunny days, wear sunglasses that offer UV protection. Look for sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays to shield your eyes from potential damage. Give Your Eyes a Break from Screens: In todays digital age, many of us spend a significant amount of time staring at screens, whether its for work, leisure, or staying connected. Prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain, characterized by symptoms like dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. To reduce eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.Eat a Balanced Diet:Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining eye health. Incorporate foods rich in vitamins and antioxidants, such as leafy greens, colorful fruits and vegetables, fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, and nuts and seeds. These nutrients can help protect against age-related vision problems like macular degeneration and cataracts.Practice Good Eye Hygiene:Proper eye hygiene is essential for preventing eye infections and irritation. Wash your hands frequently, especially before touching your eyes or handling contact lenses. Follow your eye doctors recommendations for contact lens care, including proper cleaning, disinfecting, and storage.Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can contribute to dry eyes, so be sure to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily to keep your eyes and body hydrated.Get Plenty of Sleep:Adequate sleep is crucial for overall health, including eye health. During sleep, your eyes receive much-needed rest and replenishment. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to help reduce eye fatigue and maintain optimal visual function.By incorporating these simple yet effective tips into your daily routine, you can help protect and preserve your precious eyesight for years to come.Your eyesight is irreplaceable, so take care of your eyes today for a brighter tomorrow!
When we age, taking care of our health becomes increasingly important. One area that deserves special attention is our vision, particularly the risk of developing glaucoma. Glaucoma is an eye condition that can lead to irreversible vision loss if not detected and managed early. For seniors with diabetes, monitoring eye health becomes even more necessary, as diabetes can increase the risk of developing conditions like glaucoma. Being proactive about eye health can make a significant difference in maintaining good vision for years to come.The Link Between Diabetes and GlaucomaDiabetes can cause various health problems, including those affecting the eyes. High blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels in the eyes, leading to conditions like diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. Seniors with diabetes are at a higher risk for these eye problems, making it essential to keep a close eye on eye health.How Glaucoma Affects VisionGlaucoma is a progressive disease that affects the optic nerve in the eye. Over time, it can lead to a gradual loss of vision, often starting with peripheral (side) vision. As the condition progresses, it may lead to tunnel vision or even complete blindness if left untreated. Early on, glaucoma may not present any noticeable symptoms, which is why regular eye exams are vital. Signs to watch for include blurred vision, halos around lights, or loss of peripheral vision.Early Warning Signs of Deteriorating Eye HealthRecognizing the early warning signs of glaucoma and other eye conditions is necessary for seniors, especially those managing diabetes. Here are some signs to be on the lookout for:Sudden or gradual loss of peripheral visionSeeing halos or rainbows around lightsEye pain or rednessBlurred visionHeadaches or eye discomfortEarly detection allows for better management of the condition, potentially preserving vision.Why You Need Regular Eye ExamsRegular eye exams play a key role in detecting glaucoma early. Eye doctors can perform tests to measure intraocular pressure and examine the optic nerve, helping to identify signs of glaucoma. Seniors should aim to have a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year or more often if recommended by their doctor. Staying vigilant with eye exams ensures that any changes in vision can be addressed promptly.Tips for Proactively Monitoring Eye Health at HomeIn addition to regular eye exams, there are practical steps seniors can take at home to monitor their eye health. Using good lighting when reading or performing activities can help reduce eye strain. Wearing sunglasses outdoors protects against harmful UV rays that can damage the eyes over time. You need to pay attention to any changes in vision and note them down for discussion with an eye care professional. Some seniors find it helpful to use tools like an Amsler grid to regularly check for vision distortion. Protect Your EyesProactively monitoring your eyes for glaucoma is a necessary part of maintaining overall health, particularly for seniors with diabetes. Understanding the relationship between diabetes and eye health and recognizing early warning signs of conditions like glaucoma can make a big difference. By scheduling regular eye exams and taking steps to monitor vision at home, seniors can protect their eyesight and enjoy their golden years with clarity. If you or a loved one in Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, or Longmont need support in managing eye health, reach out to Senior Helpers Greeley 970-373-3858.
It's common for our vision to change with age. For many seniors, these changes can lead to significant vision loss, making everyday tasks challenging. Family members and caregivers can provide vital support that helps seniors cope with these challenges.Encouraging Open CommunicationTalking about vision loss can be uncomfortable, but it must be addressed openly. Start by gently asking the senior about any changes they've noticed in their eyesight. Let them share their experiences and fears. Listen actively. Pay attention to what they are saying without interrupting. In addition, validate their feelings. Let them know that it's okay to feel sad, angry, or frustrated about their vision loss.Providing Emotional SupportVision loss can be emotionally overwhelming. It's normal for someone to feel stressed or depressed about losing their sight. Recognizing these feelings and offering empathy is essential. Show understanding. Explain that their emotions are a normal reaction to vision loss and let them know that you're listening. If needed, encourage professional help. Suggesting counseling can sometimes help seniors manage their feelings better.By being there emotionally, you can help alleviate some of the mental stress associated with vision loss.Helping Seniors Engage in Meaningful ActivitiesStaying engaged in hobbies and activities can greatly enhance a senior's quality of life. However, activities must be adapted to accommodate vision loss. Look for ways to adapt to current hobbies. For instance, if they enjoy reading, consider audiobooks or large-print books.As your loved one's vision changes, try to introduce new, vision-friendly activities. Gardening, music, or board games designed for low-vision individuals can be fulfilling. Use technology and assistive devices as needed. Devices like talking clocks, magnifiers, and screen readers can help them continue to enjoy activities they love.Resources for Support Groups and Counseling ServicesFinding support outside of family can also make a big difference. Local and national resources are available for seniors coping with vision loss. Organizations such as the American Foundation for the Blind and VisionAware provide online support and resources.Local support groups can also be incredibly valuable. These groups can offer a sense of community and shared experiences, making it easier for seniors to cope.The Importance of Self-Care for CaregiversCaring for a senior with vision loss can be demanding. Recognizing caregiver burnout and taking steps to care for oneself is vital. Watch for burnout signs. Emotional exhaustion, frustration, and feeling overwhelmed are common signs. Regular exercise, hobbies, and time with friends can help maintain your emotional and physical health.Don't hesitate to ask for help or hire professional respite care when needed! Taking care of your own health ensures you can continue to provide the best support for your loved one.Professional Care for Seniors with Vision LossSupporting seniors with vision loss involves open communication, emotional support, and helping them stay engaged in meaningful activities. Remember to utilize support groups and counseling services, which can make a significant difference. As a caregiver, make sure to prioritize your own self-care, too.For personalized support and services in Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, Wellington, and Longmont, contact Senior Helpers Greeley. Our home care services can provide vital support for seniors with vision loss and their families.