Early Detection Key for Age-Related Eye Disorders & Disease

Dr. Jackie Davis-Associate Professor-The Ohio State University College of Optometry 

Laura Schwartz- Special Projects Coordinator -Prevent Blindness Ohio

Did you know that 50% of all blindness is preventable? Blindness and vision loss are greatly feared because the loss of sight affects quality of life in unimaginable and well-documented ways including mobility, risk of falling, functional ability, increased depression, and feelings of or actual isolation.  In short, low vision has the potential to compromise our independence.  That's why we have to overcome our fears in favor of regular check-ups and safety precautions. 

Dr. Jackie Davis, Associate Professor at The Ohio State University College of Optometry and Laura Schwartz, Special Projects Coordinator for Prevent Blindness Ohio joined us in the studio on 2/27/14 to provide information to educate and raise awareness around age-related low vision and blindness.  The four leading causes of vision loss were identified as Age-Related Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma, Diabetic Retinopathy and Cataract.  Signs, symptoms, causes, treatment and prevention were discussed for each disorder.  Listen to the complete interview here.  

Both guests are actively involved in Ohio's Aging Eye Public Private Partnership which is a statewide collaboration working to prepare for the rapidly approaching growth in aging eye challenges.  The Partnership addresses issues related to vision care policy, services, public and professional awareness and vision research for Ohio's senior population now and in the future.  

They left us with the following take home message:  To preserve your vision, get regular dilated eye exams, wear appropriate eye protection, avoid smoking, wear sunglasses with UV protection, stay active, eat a healthy diet, and keep your blood pressure and sugar as close to normal as possible.  

For more information listen to the complete interview or visit Prevent Blindness Ohio at http://ohio.preventblindness.org/ or call 1-800-301-2020 ext 112 or visit The Ohio Ophthalmological Society at http://www.ohioeye.org/aws/OOS/pt/sp/home_page or call 614-527-6799.