January is Glaucoma Awareness Month: What you need to know

January marks Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating families about one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness—especially among older adults. Glaucoma often develops silently, without pain or early symptoms, which is why awareness and early detection are so important.
For seniors and their families, understanding glaucoma can make the difference between preserving vision and facing preventable vision loss. Here’s what you need to know and how to find the right support.

🧠 What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the part of the eye responsible for sending visual information to the brain. This damage is often caused by increased pressure inside the eye, though glaucoma can occur even with normal eye pressure.
The two most common types:
1. Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
– The most common form
– Develops slowly over time
– Often has no noticeable symptoms until vision loss has already begun
2. Angle-Closure Glaucoma
– Less common but more urgent
– Can cause sudden eye pain, nausea, blurred vision, or halos around lights
– Requires immediate medical attention
Because glaucoma progresses quietly, many seniors don’t realize they have it until significant vision loss has occurred. That’s why regular eye exams are essential.

👵 Why Seniors Are at Higher Risk
Age is one of the strongest risk factors. Seniors—especially those over 60—are more likely to develop glaucoma. Other risk factors include:
– Family history of glaucoma
– Diabetes
– Severe nearsightedness
– Long-term steroid use
– African American, Hispanic, or Asian heritage
Understanding these risks helps families stay proactive about eye health.

🔍 Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight,” but some signs may appear as the disease progresses:
– Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision
– Blurred or patchy vision
– Difficulty adjusting to low light
– Eye pain or redness (more common in angle-closure glaucoma)
– Seeing halos around lights
Any sudden changes in vision should be treated as an emergency.

🏥 How Seniors Can Get Help
1. Schedule Regular Eye Exams
The most effective way to detect glaucoma early is through a comprehensive dilated eye exam. Seniors should have one every 1–2 years, or more often if they’re high-risk.
2. Follow Treatment Plans
While glaucoma cannot be cured, it can be managed. Treatments may include:
– Prescription eye drops
– Oral medications
– Laser therapy
– Surgery
Consistent treatment helps slow or prevent further vision loss.
3. Ask for Support at Home
Seniors with glaucoma may need help with:
– Medication reminders
– Transportation to eye appointments
– Navigating the home safely
– Managing lighting and reducing fall risks
In-home caregivers can play a crucial role in helping seniors maintain independence and safety.
4. Use Local and National Resources
Families can find support through:
– Ophthalmologists and optometrists
– Local senior centers
– State aging and disability programs
– The Glaucoma Research Foundation
– The American Academy of Ophthalmology
If you’d like, I can also create a resource list tailored to Washington County and the Tigard area.

🏡 How In‑Home Care Helps Seniors Living With Glaucoma
Vision changes can make daily tasks more challenging. Professional caregivers can help by:
– Ensuring safe mobility around the home
– Providing medication reminders
– Assisting with reading mail, labels, or instructions
– Helping with transportation
– Offering companionship and reassurance
With the right support, seniors with glaucoma can continue living comfortably and confidently at home.

🌟 January Is the Perfect Time to Take Action
Glaucoma Awareness Month is a reminder that early detection saves sight. Encourage your loved ones to schedule an eye exam, learn their risk factors, and get the support they need to stay safe and independent.