Florida Hospital Best in Care - Summer 2011 - (Page 8)

Aging Learn what’s normal, what to watch for, how to compensate for changes, and what treatments are available. Ever make the mistake of putting on blue shoes or socks when you meant to wear black? Find yourself reaching more often for your glasses or having a hard time reading in dim light? If so, you’re not alone. As more Americans head toward retirement and beyond, the number of people with agerelated eye problems is expected to rise. While you can’t prevent normal changes, you can minimize the impact on your daily life and reduce your risk for future eye disease. Eyes Mont J. Cartwright, MD, Ophthalmology HOW’S YOUR VISION? The ﬁrst step is distinguishing between vision changes due to normal aging (like the examples above) from changes that may be signs of disease. Only a doctor can diagnose eye disease, so if you haven’t had an eye exam lately, consider scheduling an appointment with an ophthalmologist today. Mont J. Cartwright, MD, a board-certiﬁed ophthalmologist at Winter Park Memorial Hospital who specializes in eye diseases and surgery, describes three common ailments that a ect older eyes and the latest treatment options for each. CATARACTS A painless condition where the normally clear aspirin-sized lens of the eye becomes cloudy. The result is like smearing grease over the lens of a camera, impairing normal vision. Causes include cortisone medication, trauma, diabetes and aging. Because changes happen gradually, it’s not uncommon for people to be unaware they have cataracts. It’s only when the condition starts to a ect daily living and enjoyment do people start thinking about surgery. “Often, people consider poor vision an inevitable aspect of getting older, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Cataract surgery is a simple and relatively painless procedure that allows patients to regain vision quickly,” says Dr. Cartwright. In fact, it is the most frequently performed surgery in the US, with more than 3 million Americans undergoing the procedure annually. Nine out of 10 people who have cataract surgery regain very good vision, somewhere between 20/20 and 20/40. HEALTHY 00tips YOU ARE WHAT YOU LISTEN TO Choose to listen to uplifting, positive, happy and peaceful music. Choose music that encourages behaviors and attitudes you want to adopt. 8 For questions or to RSVP to events, call (407) 303-BEST (2378).

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Florida Hospital Best in Care - Summer 2011

Florida Hospital Best in Care - Summer 2011
Real Help for Erectile Dysfunction
Correcting a Common Problem — Pelvic Floor Disorders
Weight Gain During Cancer Treatment Puts You at Greater Risk
Bright Eyes
Choosing the Right Rehab Program After a Stroke

Florida Hospital Best in Care - Summer 2011