Cataracts are a common age-related disorder of the eye that primarily affects older adults. According to the National Eye Institute, half of American adults 80 and older have them or had surgery to eliminate them.
Cataracts cause vision changes in aging (e.g., blurry eyesight and glare sensitivity). Still, they usually develop gradually, over many years.
Unfortunately, there are also fast-growing cataracts. They progress and advance more quickly. Left untreated, they can cause a permanent, rapid vision decline.
To that end, the kind and caring team at Chateau de Boise, our senior living community in the beautiful city of Boise, Idaho's capital and largest city, put together this guide on fast-growing cataracts. Read on for insights into this condition and strategies for maintaining optimal eye health for seniors.
Most cataracts share the following characteristics:
However, the severity of cataract symptoms and the speed at which the disease progresses still depend on the specific type.
There are several types of cataracts, usually based on the specific area of the eyes they affect. Two of the most common (that are also slow-growing) are nuclear and cortical cataracts. Nuclear cataracts damage the center of the eye's lens, while cortical cataracts grow on and impact the edges of the eye's lens.
Then, there are the posterior subcapsular cataracts (PSCs), which affect the back of the lens. Compared to other types of cataracts, they grow more rapidly, as Healthline.com explains.
The signs and indications of PSCs and their progression can take just a few years or even just months, as opposed to slow-growing cataracts that take many years before their symptoms become more noticeable. Moreover, PSCs can affect younger people, not just older adults.
Cataract progression varies from one person to another. However, modifiable factors (e.g., lifestyle habits and diet) can influence the speed and rate at which cataracts develop. Underlying conditions may also contribute to the development of fast-growing PSCs.
An example is diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, 8.9% of Idaho's adult population (145,700 individuals) has received a diagnosis for it. It can cause diabetic cataracts by allowing sorbitol (sugar alcohol) to:
Another is hypertension or high blood pressure. It can contribute to cataract development or faster progression through systemic inflammation. Chronic inflammation can damage the eyes' lenses and cells, encouraging cataracts to develop and worsen quickly.
All cataracts, regardless of type, are curable through cataract surgery.
Also called lens replacement surgery, cataract surgery entails removing the affected eye's natural lens that has formed cataracts and turned opaque or cloudy. After the affected lens's removal, it gets replaced with a synthetic lens. Since it's an artificial material, the replacement lens will not develop cataracts.
Cataract surgery is safe and highly effective. As Felix Hospital points out, studies suggest that over 98% of people who've had it experience significant vision improvement. Many have even achieved near-perfect vision.
Older adults in Boise, ID, with existing cataracts can also opt for surgery regardless of their condition's stage. They don't have to wait for the cloudiness to "ripen" before undergoing the procedure.
On the contrary, seniors with fast-growing cataracts should consider having the surgery as soon as possible. By removing the cataracts ASAP, they no longer have to worry about experiencing the disorder's many unpleasant symptoms and complications, such as:
After the procedure, seniors should have clear, optimal vision again. They can enjoy their everyday lives better, live more independently, and engage in more physical and social activities.
Not all fast-growing cataracts (or any other type of cataract, for that matter) are 100% preventable. However, older adults can still take proactive steps to mitigate their risks of developing this eye condition or other health problems that can make them more susceptible to getting cataracts.
Here are some Boise senior wellness tips and tricks for cataract prevention and better eye and overall health.
Getting enough sun is vital for vitamin D synthesis. However, too much of it can also be harmful.
There are several ways in which overexposure to the sun can hurt seniors in Boise, one of which is by causing ultraviolet (UV) damage to the eyes and skin. Another is by causing heat-related illnesses (HRIs), such as exertional heat stroke.
Unprotected and prolonged exposure to UV rays can hurt the eyes and make them more susceptible to cataract development or progression. For this reason, older adults should always wear sunglasses with a UV 400 or 100% UV protection rating. Donning wide-brimmed hats whenever venturing outdoors, especially on sunny Boise days, can also help.
Healthier lifestyles play significant roles in preventing or delaying cataracts, especially in seniors with modifiable risk factors like diabetes.
For instance, a healthy, well-balanced diet rich in fresh fruits, veggies, and whole grains can provide nutrients essential to optimal eye health. Such nutritious, healthier food options can also protect against cataracts by boosting antioxidants.
Exercising regularly is another critical strategy for cataract prevention and overall health and well-being. As the U.S. CDC explains, physical activity brings many benefits, including:
All those perks may help keep cataracts at bay since they can be risk factors for the onset and progression of cataracts.
Fast-growing cataracts can rob you of your vision and independence. Fortunately, they are curable, with surgery allowing you to recover optimal eyesight. You can also take steps to delay their onset or lower your risk of developing them.
Our senior living community in Boise, ID, Chateau de Boise, specializes in providing high-quality independent living with supportive services. Through our support and amenities, including health and wellness programs and nutritious meals, we can help you age gracefully and healthily.
Call our friendly team today to book a tour of our beautiful, pet-friendly retirement village!