Are Specialty Contact Lenses Suitable for Seniors?

Good eyesight is vital for remaining independent in the senior years. Poor vision can make it difficult to perform many activities, such as driving, reading, and participating in various hobbies. 
 

Contact lenses are a good option for correcting vision, but many seniors are worried about their safety and effectiveness. Specialty contact lenses are ideal for people with difficulties wearing regular contact lenses. 
 

Specialty Contact Lenses

If you have had difficulties wearing contact lenses in the past, some innovations can solve your problem. There are three main types of contact lenses: soft lenses, rigid gas-permeable lenses, and hybrid contacts. 
 

Lens varieties are available within the three types to suit different eye and vision needs. They come in various materials and shapes. Specialty contact lenses help to address astigmatism, presbyopia, sensitivity, and other issues. Your eye doctor can recommend the best lenses for your condition. 

What to Consider When Choosing Lenses

Age should not be a barrier to wearing contact lenses. An eye exam will determine if you are a good candidate for specialty contact lenses. If you decide to get contact lenses, consider factors such as fit, cost, and lens care. 

Think about your lifestyle before getting contacts. If you live in a dry or dusty area, prolonged contact lens wear may be uncomfortable. If contact lenses are not ideal for you, the doctor can recommend other vision correction options, such as eyeglasses and surgery. 
 

Types of Specialty Lenses 

Various types of specialty contact lenses include:

·      Rigid gas permeable lenses (RGPs)

·      Toric lenses

·      Scleral contact lenses

·      Hybrid lenses

·      Multifocal contact lenses.

·      Orthokeratology lenses

·      Disposable contact lenses

Senior individuals with hard-to-fit eyes can find lenses to suit their needs
 

Common Age-Related Eye Issues

Eyesight issues are common as people age. They include:

·      Presbyopia

·      Increased floaters

·      Dry eye or MGD

·      Excess light sensitivity

·      Excess tearing

·      Cataracts

·      Corneal diseases

Seniors will likely develop eyelid problems due to immune reactions, infections, physical irritation, and other conditions. It is essential to seek professional care if you experience vision changes.  

Eye Exams for Seniors 

Eye specialists recommend annual eye exams for senior adults. Contact lens wearers may require more frequent exams to monitor eye health. Eye exams detect vision issues before they escalate. Tests include a dilated eye exam and screening for glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. 
 

Corneal mapping and visual field tests help to detect eye diseases and vision issues. Scheduling an eye exam will determine if specialty contact lenses suit the senior patient. Most seniors who choose to wear contact lenses have done so for years. 
 

An upgrade to new materials or designs can ensure improved comfort. Talk to your eye doctor if you plan to get contacts for the first time. You can learn about issues common in mature eyes. Reduced wear time can help prevent issues like dry eye condition. Following lens care instructions will help to protect against infections and improve comfort. 
 

For more on whether specialty lenses suit seniors, visit Blue Hills Eye Associates at our office in Braintree, Massachusetts. Call (781) 794-2200 to book an appointment today.