Optometrists anticipate “boom” in eye diseases as baby boomers turn 60
Some diseases have no symptoms in early stages
In a year where an estimated 2.8 million baby boomers will celebrate their 60th birthday, age-related eye diseases are becoming increasingly important health issues, according to the American Optometric Association (AOA).
“Today’s 60-year-olds are more health conscious than 60-year-olds 20 years ago,” said Richard C. Edlow, O.D., AOA Information and Data Committee chair. “But being better informed about health risks, improved technology and treatment options has not necessarily translated into including regular eye examinations into their health care routine.”