Our sight diminishes with age, which naturally has an impact on our quality of life and our ability to live independently. According to the CDC, 20.5 million Americans over the age of 40 suffer from cataracts. The good news is that cataracts disease is treatable with cataract surgery. With a little help, continuing to live on your own is entirely possible.
The National Eye Institute defines a cataract as “a clouding of the lens in the eye that affects vision.” This cloudiness can affect one or both eyes and is not transferred from one eye to the other. As people age, the proteins in the eyes can clump together, forming the cloud over the lens. Smaller clumps may not affect vision, but they will continue to grow over time. A cataract may also change the color of the lens of the eye, gradually tinting it brown. Some of the symptoms that cataract sufferers will notice include: blurry vision, faded colors or inability to identify blues and purples, double vision, and poor night vision.
New glasses and brighter lighting in your home may provide temporary relief. However, if cataracts interfere with daily activities, the only truly effective treatment is surgery. The operation is simple, but it may require anesthesia (depending on your risk factors and personal preference). Care after surgery can be crucial in ensuring your eyesight returns appropriately.
In the first couple of days after surgery, you will experience mild discomfort. In the first few weeks, your doctor will recommend you avoid heavy lifting and bending at the waist. Healing is not fully complete for eight weeks. During your recovery period, home health care services could be of great assistance to you.
You’ll Need Help
After surgery, a home health aide can assist with housekeeping duties, grocery shopping, and transportation to and from follow-up doctor’s appointments. In addition, a home healthcare agency has supervising registered nurses to give direction and guidance to the home health aides. This can be a significant aid during recovery as there are risks associated with cataract surgery. While problems like loss of vision, infection, bleeding, and inflammation are rare, having someone there to provide insight and help get you prompt medical attention can prevent permanent damage.
If you are suffering from cataracts and are considering cataract surgery, contact us to discuss how we can assist with your individual needs. Cataract surgery can improve your quality of life and preserve your independence. Let our quality, personalized home care aid you back to healthy vision.
David York Agency Can Help
At David York Agency, it is our mission to provide the highest-quality support services to the aged, infirmed, and disabled. Our highly trained and vetted professionals can provide your family with a level of in-home assistance that meets your needs.
For more information about our qualified, compassionate caregivers, contact us at 908.373.5300. A free phone consultation can help you decide what services might be best for you and your loved ones.
If you’d like to hear more from us, please like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter, or LinkedIn.
