Health The wearing of sunglasses, especially for snowbirds, is very important in helping to prevent the damaging effect of UV-A and UV-B rays on our eye lenses, which hastens the development of cataracts. The protection also extends to the retina as well as the delicate skin around the eye. Be sure that you are using sunglasses labelled as being 100% effective against UV-A and UV-B rays. Large sunglasses or those that wrap around and have this protection are recommended. Remember that darker sunglasses and polarized lenses may look better and cut glare but, unless properly labelled with 100% UV protection, these do not offer the necessary protection from the sun. It is well-known that smoking is directly linked to an increased risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Diet is often discussed and there is some evidence to indicate that a diet rich in vegetables − especially leafy green ones − may be protective. When playing sports or doing projects around the home, proper eye protection to prevent eye injuries is important. Since those with diabetes, hypertension and certain other medical conditions are more at risk for eye disorders, careful monitoring and treatment of these conditions is important. There are many eye conditions aside from refractive errors to which we are increasingly vulnerable as we age. By far the most common of these are cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. Cataract: As with a camera, the eye has a lens which focuses light or an image on the retina at the back of the eye. Once the light reaches the retina, it is changed into nerve signals which are sent via the optic nerve to the brain. If the lens becomes clouded because of the clumping of protein in the lens, vision is affected. Over time, the cataract may enlarge, making it harder to see due to blurring and duller vision. Colours may seem faded and night vision may be affected by glare and headlight brightness. When supportive CSANews | SPRING 2019 | 35
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