Florida Leads the US in Eye Degeneration Disease: Here Is How Suncoast Residents Can Protect Their Vision

As an ideal spot for retirees, it’s no surprise that Florida’s median age was 42.7 in 2021 – higher than the national median of 38.8. However, this aging population has surfaced another alarming statistic: Florida has the highest rate of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), with over 18% of residents over 40 who have the condition compared to 12.6% nationwide.

It’s expected that AMD’s prevalence goes up as life expectancy increases. But for Floridians in particular, the area’s low latitude exposes them to more UV radiation than the rest of the United States, another risk factor for AMD and other severe eye conditions. The state has 29.2 UV-attributable melanoma cases per 100,000 people, making Florida the state with the second-highest incidence of melanoma, a type of cancer the eyes can also develop. There is clearly a connection between increased sun exposure and eye-related diseases – so what can Suncoast residents do to keep themselves safe?

Temperature matters

Recent research shows that American seniors living in warmer areas are more likely to suffer from severe vision impairment. The odds of this were a whopping 44% higher for those in counties with an average temperature of 60°F or above. In Tampa, temperatures can range from 67.8°F in January – already well past the threshold indicated in this study – to an even more dizzying high of 90.3°F in August. That said, not everyone can pack their bags and leave the Suncoast for a different area, meaning eye protection habits should become a permanent part of residents’ lifestyles.

Outdoor eye protection

Everyone knows that sunglasses provide reliable protection from glare and UV rays. However, those needing corrective lenses for vision may not get the sun protection they need. To address this, Suncoast residents can invest in a pair of prescription sunglasses to wear outdoors; this way, you won’t have to choose between seeing clearly or not being blinded by the sun. The Ray-Ban New Wayfarer Classic is a stylish, unisex, and enduring style in various single-vision and progressive lens colors. Polarization options are available to reduce light glare from the coast’s reflective ocean surfaces. However, sun protection doesn’t end the moment you walk into your home from the beach.

Indoor eye protection

In areas with high sun exposure, like the Suncoast, protecting your eyes in indoor spaces is equally important. Light-filtering window treatments are designed to protect your eyes from harsh light and prevent eye strain. The Sunbrella Marx Light Filtering Grommet Curtain features UV fade-proof technology and a fine basket weave texture that allows users to control or diffuse light to prioritize eye protection, all while not completely blocking out light. Suncoast residents can have their windows directly treated with a UV protection film as an added layer. But as ideal as window treatment options are, practicing personal protection habits is still essential to mitigate even more sun exposure from damaging the eyes.

Boosting your eye health

Previously, we talked about how grateful we are to be a part of a community with a host of farmers markets that give residents access to fresh, locally-sourced produce harvested at peak ripeness for optimal nutritional value. A fundamental tenet of eye protection is a healthy diet that’s exceptionally high in Vitamin A, omega-3 fatty acids, and more. Regular trips to the farmers market for carrots, red peppers, and other eye-healthy foods will boost eye protection levels from the inside out. These positive diet changes can be supplemented by physical activity, as exercise can reduce the risk of conditions like diabetes, which leads to eye conditions like diabetic retinopathy.

Living in a sunny state doesn’t mean there isn’t anything you can do to keep your eyes from sun damage. With proper eyewear, indoor protection, and a healthier lifestyle, Suncoast residents can enjoy Florida’s iconic sunsets without compromising clear, healthy vision.

Photo from Unsplash