What to Expect After 40: Vision Changes and More

You’ve Hit the Big 4-0! Now What?! Dr. Dawn Butler So...You passed the “magic birthday.” That’s right--40. For many of us, it comes as a shock. We don’t feel old. In our minds, we’re still 24--at the top of our game, finally hitting our stride, active and in control. We’re hiking, kayaking, traveling, and living it up. And we should keep doing all those things. But then one day--you wake up and can’t see. “Doc, I’ve always had perfect vision. But two days ago, I woke up and I couldn't read a text message! I must be seen immediately. Am I going blind?!” This kind of panicked call is one I get a lot. And yes, we always treat vision changes seriously--because we should. But in most cases, this isn’t blindness. It’s not even an emergency. It’s just biology. What’s Really Happening? As we age, the crystalline lens in our eyes begins to lose elasticity. That’s the part of your eye that flexes to help you focus up close. Over time, it stiffens--making it harder to read fine print or see things clearly up close. This natural change is called presbyopia. Don’t worry. You’re not alone. This is normal. But Wait--There’s More (Yay?) While presbyopia is common after 40, other age-related health changes can also start to creep in: ● Macular degeneration ● Cataracts ● Glaucoma ● Heart disease ● Diabetes If Aunt Susie has any of these, then you, my friend, may be at higher risk too. That’s why yearly eye exams (and regular health check-ups) become more important than ever. Early detection makes a huge difference. So What Can You Do? Here’s my favorite advice from one of the best books out there on healthy aging, “Younger Next Year” by Chris Crowley and Dr. Henry Lodge. Want to feel younger every year? Here are their 3 golden rules: 1. Love someone (or something) -- A partner, a pet, a community. Connection matters. 2. Play outside -- Move your body. Every day. 3. Cut the crap -- No processed food. Fresh is best. If I could add one more rule, it would be to get your yearly eye exams. After 40 it’s more important than ever! Bottom Line: Aging is real--but so is your ability to age well. Keep moving. Eat fresh. Get your eyes checked. Love big. And may we all be a little younger next year.