Visual
impairments, especially among the elderly, have been significantly linked to
fall-related fractures and injuries, medical experts say, stressing the
importance of early correction of vision problems. Recently, a study which
appeared in the Journal of the American Medical Association states that
cataract surgery reduces the propensity of hip fractures. More than a million
elderly persons diagnosed with cataract were involved in this retrospective
study which has revealed a lesser likelihood of hip fractures for those who
received the cataract surgery.
A
cataract is the gradual loss of transparency of the lens of the eye which often
affects the central part of the lens causing blurry or impaired vision. Most of
the time, this is developed through ageing and in chronic conditions like
diabetes. Early symptoms of cataract include a progressive decrease in vision
clarity (which is not corrected by using eyeglasses), diminished night vision,
weak color vision, problems with glaring lights, and an improvement in
nearsightedness. Seeking medical help immediately ensures better chances for an
early and more effective treatment. In most cases, a cataract surgery may be
necessary.
According
to ophthalmology experts, it is difficult to determine the development of
cataract, but there are known factors that may be limited to reduce its risk.
Avoiding too much exposure to ultraviolet light, managing diabetes symptoms,
weight management, and limiting or avoiding smoking habits may help lessen the
possibility of cataract as one reaches old age.
For
those who are already diagnosed with cataract, going through surgery may do
more than improve eyesight. According to the study, cataract surgery reduces
hip fracture risk by 16 percent. Doctors have explained that better vision aids
with better balance, coordination, and ambulation. With this, falls are also
minimized.
Falls
contribute to majority of hip fractures in the elderly. Because most of the
older adults have weak bones, pelvic muscles, and cartilage, the risk for
osteoporosis and arthritis is also heightened, thereby increasing the
possibility of fractures even in low-impact falls. With this, medical staffs
are increasing fall precautions among the elderly, especially those who have
visual limitations.
If
you are caring for an elderly person at home who you think might be having
vision problems, it may be best if you take him or her to a clinic for a more
thorough assessment. Poor eyesight may compromise the health and general safety
of your loved ones. By having their eyesight examined, you may just be helping
them avoid physically limiting conditions such as hip fractures.
References:
jama.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=1273017
medicinenet.com/cataracts/article.htm
health.usnews.com/health-news/news/articles/2012/07/31/cataract-surgery-may-cut-risk-of-hip-fracture
