How Vision Changes Increase the Risk of Falling
One major cause of falls in older adults is not being able to see as well as you used to.
As many people age, reading small print and driving at night often become more challenging. But while these changes can be frustrating, changing eyesight can also affect something else that is also important to your safety: your balance.
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in older adults. “Many people think of weak muscles or slippery floors as the biggest reasons for falls, but vision plays a major role, too,” said Lisa Y. Yang MD, an ophthalmologist at PIH Health La Mirada medical office.
“When you can't clearly see what's around you, it's much easier to trip, miss a step, or lose your balance,” continued Dr. Yang.
How Vision Affects Your Balance
Your brain relies on three systems to help you stay upright: your vision, your inner ear, and the nerves in your muscles and joints. When one of those systems isn't working well, your body has to work harder to stay balanced.
If your eyesight isn't as sharp as it used to be, you may have trouble:
- Seeing curbs, steps, or uneven sidewalks
- Judging distances correctly
- Noticing obstacles like rugs, cords, or clutter
- Adjusting when moving from a bright area to a darker one
- Walking safely in dim lighting
According to Dr. Yang, “Even small vision changes can make everyday activities more difficult and increase the chance of falling.”
Eye Conditions that Raise Your Fall Risk
Several common eye conditions become more common with age and can affect your ability to move safely, including:
- Cataracts: These can make vision blurry and increase glare, making it harder to see hazards.
- Glaucoma: This eye disease often reduces side or peripheral vision, which can make it easier to bump into objects or miss something beside you.
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): Affecting central vision, AMD makes it harder to recognize steps, curbs, or changes in flooring.
- Diabetic eye disease: This common ailment can cause blurred or patchy vision that affects safe movement.
If you notice changes in your vision, don't assume they're just a normal part of getting older. Many eye problems can be treated or managed if they're found early so it’s best to schedule an eye exam.
Lower Your Risk of Falls by Taking Care of Your Eyes
Protecting your eyesight is an important part of preventing falls. These tips can help:
- Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams, even if you think your vision is fine
- Wear prescription glasses or contacts if needed and update them when your prescription changes
- Make sure your home has plenty of lighting, especially in hallways, stairways, and bathrooms
- Use nightlights to help you safely move around after dark
- Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs, electrical cords, and clutter
- Take your time when moving from bright sunlight into darker indoor spaces so your eyes have a chance to adjust
Good vision helps you move confidently through your home and community while avoiding hazards that could lead to a serious fall.
If you've been feeling unsteady or have had a recent fall, it's worth asking your healthcare provider whether your vision could be part of the problem.
“An eye exam, updated glasses, or treatment for an eye condition may improve your vision,” said Dr. Yang.
Combined with regular exercise to increase strength and balance and a safer home environment, taking care of your eyes helps you stay independent as you age.
To learn more about eye health or to find an ophthalmologist or an optometrist, visit PIHHealth.org/EyeCare
