Protecting your sight as you age: What every Canadian needs to know

(NC) As Canada’s population ages, chronic conditions such as diabetes, stroke and neurological disorders are becoming increasingly common. With these conditions comes a heightened risk of vision loss. Early detection, timely treatment and proper follow-up care are crucial in reducing the risk of vision loss.

This approach is particularly important for conditions like diabetic retinopathy (DR), where early intervention can prevent blindness. Integrated, people-centered eye care within health systems is essential, with strong primary health care as the foundation.

Diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes, is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in Canada.

“If you have diabetes, early detection of diabetic retinopathy is the best protection against vision loss,” says Dr. Mona Dagher, an ophthalmologist . “Nearly 60 per cent of patients with Type 2 diabetes in Canada will develop DR within 20 years of diagnosis. That’s why annual screening is key to early detection and timely intervention.”

Chronic health conditions can also affect vision in other ways. Stroke survivors may experience visual field loss, while people with Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis may have difficulty with eye coordination or focus. These challenges extend beyond eyesight, impacting mobility, independence and overall well-being.

Thankfully, low vision rehabilitation services can help individuals remain active and independent, even with changes in their vision. Since significant or complete vision loss isn’t inevitable, many Canadians are finding practical solutions to continue living full and engaged lives. From mobility training and home safety modifications to assistive technologies like magnifiers, screen readers, talking GPS devices, and smart-home tools, these services help individuals adapt, and support daily living.

You can find out more about protecting your sight as you age at seethepossibilities.ca.