Skip to content

Age-Related Dry Eye: Causes and Solutions

Addressing the Challenges of Dry Eyes As We Age

Addressing the Challenges of Dry Eyes As We Age

As we age, our bodies undergo various transformations, including changes in our eye health. One common age-related condition that many individuals encounter is dry eye syndrome. Understanding the factors contributing to this condition and how to manage it effectively becomes increasingly crucial as we age.

Dry eye syndrome in older adults often arises from a combination of factors related to aging and other external influences.

An elderly woman wearing glasses and a beige cardigan is holding her forehead with her left hand, possibly feeling tired or experiencing a headache. She is looking down with her eyes closed, possibly in a room. She is holding a pair of glasses with her right hand, which has a silver frame. She is probably trying to relieve her headache by resting her head on her hand.
An older man in a red polo shirt is looking at a bottle of pills in his hand.

Exploring Age-Related Factors Contributing to Dry Eye

  • Tear Gland Function

    Our tear gland function may decline as we age, leading to reduced tear production. This decrease in tear volume can result in dryness and discomfort.

  • Environmental Factors

    Seniors may encounter different environmental conditions that exacerbate dry eye symptoms, such as increased indoor heating or air conditioning systems.

  • Medications That Can Cause Dry Eye

    Certain medications commonly prescribed to older adults, such as hypertension tablets, can have side effects that contribute to dry eyes. It's essential to understand how these drugs may impact your eye health.

  • Underlying Medical Conditions

    Age-related health conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases, can also increase the risk of dry eye syndrome. Managing these conditions is integral to overall eye health.

Eye Comfort Strategies as We Grow Older

Age-related dry eye does not have to be a constant source of discomfort. With the guidance of eye care professionals, seniors can explore various treatment options to alleviate symptoms and improve their quality of life.

  • Customized Treatment Plans

    Eye care providers can create personalized treatment plans tailored to address the specific needs of seniors with dry eye syndrome.

  • Lifestyle Modifications

    Simple adjustments to daily routines, such as incorporating humidifiers in living spaces or using preservative-free artificial tears, can significantly improve eye comfort.

  • Medication Management

    In cases where medications contribute to dry eye, healthcare providers can explore alternative treatments or adjustments to minimize side effects.

  • Regular Eye Exams

    Routine eye exams are essential for monitoring age-related eye conditions, allowing for early detection and intervention when necessary.

Patient Reviews

4.5
141 Reviews
5
4
3
2
1
Daniel G.
Great EYE Care,very professional!
Austin H.
Selah Vision Center was an incredible experience. I came in knowing my prescription felt off and tha... t I wasn’t seeing clearly. They truly listened to my concerns and took the time to get it right. Even after finding the correct prescription, they fine tuned it to make my vision even sharper. That level of care and precision really stood out and they have now become mine and my blind as a bat families go to optometrist. I left seeing better than I have in a long time. Highly recommend!

Dry Eyes in Selah

Outside our new office
Photograph of Brett Mower
Hours
  • Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 1:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • United Healthcare
  • Cigna
  • Spectera
  • Davis Vision
  • Humana
  • EyeMed
  • Tricare
  • Medicaid
  • Anthem
  • Avesis
  • UMR
  • AARP
  • Care Credit
  • Multiplan
  • Aetna Medicare
  • MetLife
  • March Vision Care
  • AARP Medicare Complete
  • Aetna
  • Meritain Health
  • Optum
  • Cigna Vision
  • Envolve Benefits Options
  • Superior Vision
  • United Health Care Community Plan
  • GEHA
  • Amerigroup
  • TriWest
  • Molina Healthcare
  • FEP Blue Vision
  • Great West Healthcare
  • Mutual Of Omaha
  • Regence
  • Ambetter
  • Health Partners
  • Premera Blue Cross
  • First Choice Health
  • Premier Eye Care
  • WellCare
  • Pacific Source
  • United Healthcare Medicare Advantage
  • Tricare for Life
  • Medicare Part B
  • Health Comp
  • Kaiser Permanente
  • Webtpa
  • Aarp Medicare Advantage
  • PacifiCare
  • IBEW
  • ChampVA
  • Adventist Risk Management Inc.
  • Allegiance
  • Health Alliance Insurance
  • USAA
  • Life Wise Health Plan of Washington
  • Physicans Mutual
  • Network Health
  • Asuris Northwest Health
  • Zenith American Solutions
  • Nbn
  • Regence Group Administrators
  • UFCW
  • Community Health Plan
  • Labor and Industries
  • Washington Apple Health Medicaid
  • Adventist health
  • Employee Benefit Systems
  • American Republic Insurance Services
  • Shasta Health Insurance
  • KPS Health Plans
  • Health Care Solutions Group
An elderly man is looking into an eye examination machine while a woman looks on in the background

Selah Vision Clinic Prioritizes Your Vision and Comfort

As we journey through life, aging brings changes to our bodies, including our eyes. By understanding the causes and effective management of age-related dry eye, you can enjoy improved eye comfort and clarity, enhancing your well-being in your golden years.

Call Selah Vision Clinic today to schedule your comprehensive eye exam and discuss personalized dry eye strategies.