January 2 , 2025 The Beacon • 17
These tips will help active seniors protect their vision
Retirement may be seen as a time to slow down and enjoy some well-earned rest and relaxation , but today ’ s seniors clearly did not get the memo . Modern seniors look and act a lot different than traditional depictions of retirees .
The shift in attitudes regarding aging is noticeable in the growth of active retirement communities , which are designed for aging men and women who want to engage in activities where no chairs are required . Active seniors may not fit outdated stereotypes of cardigan-clad grandparents shuffling about dusty retirement homes , but even the most energetic retirees may still be vulnerable to age-related health complications .
For example , the American Optometric Association notes that men and women over the age of 60 may be vulnerable to age-related vision problems . A certain degree of vision loss is natural as men and women age , but that doesn ’ t mean active seniors have to sit idly by . In fact , there are many ways for active seniors to protect their vision so they can continue to get up and go without having to worry about losing their eyesight .
Make your diet work for you
The AOA notes that a number of eye diseases can develop after an individual turns 60 , and some of these conditions can be minimized with wise lifestyle choices . For example , a healthy , nutrient-rich diet can protect vision over the long haul . The National Council On Aging notes that studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids , which can be found in foods like spinach , kale and salmon , can reduce individuals ’ risk for age-related eye diseases . Seniors can speak with their physicians about other ways to utilize diet to combat age-related vision problems .
Protect your eyes and look cool
Active seniors spend lots of time outdoors , and that may have an adverse effect on their vision . The NCOA notes that lengthy exposure to the sun ’ s ultraviolet rays can cause both short- and long-term eye damage . Thankfully , such issues are easily avoided if seniors wear sunglasses with UV protection when going outside . Brimmed hats also can protect the eyes from harmful UV rays .
Be mindful of screen time
Much has been made of how much screen time is healthy for young people . But seniors also are not immune to the potentially harmful effects of spending too much time staring at their phones and other devices . The NCOA recommends seniors employ the 20-20-20 rule in regard to screen usage . Every 20 minutes , look about 20 feet away for 20 seconds . This quick exercise can reduce eye strain .
Ridgewood school board meets
The Ridgewood Board of Education met in regular session on Dec . 20 .
Commendations were given to the RHS Student Council ; Penny Mast ; Rebecca Wells and RHS performing arts ; Jill Collins ; Haley Evans ; advisers and high school cafeteria ladies Marla Farver , Keri Brown , Jordan Pabin and Annie Patterson ; custodians Heather Wilson , Elaine Haynes and Suzie Blackstone ; and Jeanie McVay and Barb Williamson for invitations and programs for their work to make a success of the senior citizens luncheon held Dec . 19 at the high school . There were approximately 175 people in attendance . They were treated to the play “ One Stop Light Town .”
The girls golf team was in attendance and was recognized for its 11-2 season , placing third in districts . This is the first time the girls program has advanced beyond sectionals . The team is made up of Jacey Hess , Josie Stanton , Zoe Martin and Brynn Harstine .
Students representing the vocational agriculture program that will travel on a summer trip to Ireland were in attendance to give an itinerary for their trip . The trip will focus on the students learning about the lamb and farming industries in Ireland . They were Alaina Huff , Wade Thompson , Alivia Mourer and Bryn Waters .
The next meeting will be Thursday , Jan . 9 beginning at 5 p . m . at the administration office , 301 Oak St ., West Lafayette .
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