The risk of developing cataracts increases with age. While cataracts don’t always cause noticeable issues, they can lead to blurry, discolored, or double vision as well as light sensitivity. Luckily, a simple surgical procedure can cure cataracts. If your aging loved one is planning to have cataract surgery, here’s what to expect after the procedure.
Normal Side Effects
After cataract surgery, your loved one may experience some visual distortions, which should go away as the eye heals. Light may continue to impact your loved one’s vision as well. If the eye feels dry or itchy after the surgery, your loved one shouldn’t try to scratch or rub it. The doctor can prescribe medications to prevent dryness and itchiness in the eye. Reddening of the eye is also normal, but it usually goes away with time.
Seniors who need help recovering from surgical procedures should consider professional in-home care. Senior home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
Unusual Side Effects
Some seniors experience unusual side effects after cataract surgery. Your loved one may experience eye drooping, swelling, bruising, infection, bleeding, excess pressure, or fluid buildup in the eye. If you notice any of these changes, call the doctor’s office and report the side effects immediately. The sooner these side effects are treated, the less likely they are to impact your loved one’s vision permanently.
Posterior Capsule Opacification
Another side effect your loved one may experience after the surgery is called posterior capsule opacification, which occurs when the eye thickens around the new lens and vision becomes cloudy. Posterior capsule opacification is typically treatable with a laser procedure offered by the eye surgeon.
Caring for recuperating seniors can be a challenging task that puts family caregivers at risk for burnout. Columbia respite care professionals can assist seniors with a wide array of daily tasks, offering family caregivers the chance to focus on other personal responsibilities or take a break to prevent burnout. Whether it’s for a few hours a day or a few days a week, respite care is the perfect solution for family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed.
Certain Lifestyle Changes
Your loved one may need to make some simple lifestyle changes after cataract surgery, such as wearing special sunglasses, an eye patch, or an eye shield or taking medication to prevent infection and inflammation. Cataract surgery is almost always an outpatient procedure and doesn’t require an overnight hospital stay. However, your loved one will need a ride home after the surgery. Seniors who undergo cataract surgery shouldn’t lift heavy items or bend over to pick things up until the doctor gives them permission. It’s also important to rest after arriving home from the surgery.
Better Vision in the Long Run
Two months after cataract surgery, your loved one should notice a major enhancement in vision. However, the vision may not be as good as it was when your loved one was younger. Some people require glasses or contacts after they’ve had cataract surgery. Your loved one should follow all doctors’ orders and attend any follow-up appointments set by the eye surgeon.
After undergoing surgical procedures, older adults can speed up the recovery process by making healthy lifestyle choices. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of senior Home Care. Columbia Assisting Hands Home Care provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives. If your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today.