Glaucoma living in older adults
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which is the cable that connects your eye to your brain. This damage is often caused by too much pressure inside the eye. Over time, it can lead to vision loss. The most common type has no early symptoms, so many people don’t know they have it until their vision is affected.
Key facts
- Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in older adults, but early treatment can often prevent vision loss.
- There is no cure for glaucoma, but with regular check-ups and treatment, most people can keep their sight for life.
- Glaucoma often runs in families, so if a close relative has it, you should have your eyes checked regularly.
Yes, glaucoma is quite common in older adults. About 1 in 10 people over 75 have it, and many don't know it yet.
Glaucoma mainly affects adults over 60, though it can happen at any age. People with a family history of glaucoma, those of African or Asian heritage, and those with certain medical conditions like diabetes are at higher risk.
Symptoms
- Sudden, severe eye pain.
- Redness in the eye.
- Blurred vision or seeing halos around lights.
- Nausea or vomiting with eye pain.
- ⚠A sudden decrease in vision, even if painless.
- ⚠Seeing new floaters or flashes of light.
- ⚠Any eye injury that affects your sight.
Common symptoms
- In the early stages, there are often no symptoms at all – this is why regular eye exams are so important.
- Over time, you may slowly lose your side (peripheral) vision, as if you're looking through a tunnel.
- Advanced glaucoma can cause central vision loss, making it hard to see things straight ahead.
Symptoms in children
- Glaucoma in children is rare and usually has different causes, such as a problem with the eye's drainage system at birth.
Symptoms in older adults
- Gradual loss of side vision, often unnoticed until it's advanced.
- Difficulty seeing in dim light or adjusting to dark rooms.
- Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription that don't seem to help.
Causes
Main causes
- High pressure inside the eye (called intraocular pressure) is the main cause. This happens when the fluid that normally drains from the eye doesn't drain properly.
- Less commonly, glaucoma can occur even with normal eye pressure due to poor blood flow to the optic nerve.
Risk factors
- Age over 60.
- Family history of glaucoma (parent, brother, or sister).
- Being of African, Hispanic, or Asian descent.
- Having high eye pressure (detected during an eye exam).
- Using long-term steroid medications (like eye drops or pills).
- Medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a very thin cornea.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you have sudden eye pain with nausea or vomiting.
- If you see halos around lights or have sudden blurred vision.
Book a routine appointment if:
- If you are over 60, have a family history of glaucoma, or have other risk factors, get a comprehensive eye exam every 1–2 years.
- If you already have glaucoma, follow your eye doctor's schedule – usually every 6–12 months.
Diagnosis
Glaucoma is diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. The doctor will measure the pressure in your eye and check the health of your optic nerve.
Tests that may be done
- Tonometry: a puff of air or a gentle touch to measure eye pressure.
- Ophthalmoscopy: looking at the back of your eye with a special light to see the optic nerve.
- Perimetry: a visual field test that checks your side vision.
- Gonioscopy: using a lens to see the drainage angle in your eye.
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT): a detailed scan of the optic nerve.
What to expect at your appointment
The tests are painless and take about 30–60 minutes. Your eyes may be dilated (drops to widen the pupil) so your vision will be blurry for a few hours afterward – bring sunglasses and have someone drive you home.
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to lower the pressure inside your eye to prevent further damage to the optic nerve. Treatment is usually lifelong and starts with eye drops.
Self-care at home
- Use your eye drops exactly as prescribed – even if you feel fine. Skipping doses can raise your eye pressure.
- Keep all follow-up appointments so your doctor can check your pressure and adjust treatment if needed.
- Tell your doctor about any other medications you take, as some can affect eye pressure.
Medical treatments
Eye drops are the most common first treatment. They work by either reducing the amount of fluid your eye makes or helping it drain better. If drops alone aren't enough, your doctor may recommend oral medications or laser treatments. Laser procedures can help open the drainage channels in the eye. All treatments should be discussed with your eye specialist.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery may be considered when drops and laser don't lower the pressure enough. There are different types of surgery to create a new drainage path for the fluid in the eye. Your doctor will explain the risks and benefits.
Living with this condition
Glaucoma doesn't have to stop you from doing what you enjoy. With regular treatment and check-ups, most people maintain good vision for many years. You may need to adapt some activities, like driving at night, if your side vision is affected. Talk to your doctor about any concerns.
Lifestyle tips
- Use good lighting at home – brighter lights help you see better and avoid falls.
- If you have lost some side vision, turn your head more often to scan the room.
- Consider using large-print books, magnifiers, or talking devices to make daily tasks easier.
Diet and exercise
A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, along with regular exercise like walking, may help maintain overall eye health. Avoid heavy lifting or exercises that involve holding your breath and straining, as these can briefly raise eye pressure.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Living with a chronic eye condition can cause worry or sadness. It's normal to feel anxious about losing your sight. Talk to your doctor or a counselor about these feelings. Many people cope well by staying informed and connected with others.
Prevention
There is no sure way to prevent glaucoma, but early detection through regular eye exams can prevent vision loss. If you have high eye pressure but no nerve damage, your doctor may recommend treatment to lower your risk.
Screening programmes
If you are over 40 and have a family history of glaucoma, talk to your doctor about getting a baseline eye exam. For most people, a full eye exam every 2 years after age 60 is recommended.
Complications
If left untreated
- Permanent loss of side vision (tunnel vision).
- Blindness – glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide.
- Difficulty with daily activities like walking, reading, and recognizing faces.
Long-term outlook
With early diagnosis and consistent treatment, most people with glaucoma can keep their sight for their entire life. Vision that is already lost cannot be restored, but ongoing care can prevent further loss. The outlook is very good for those who follow their treatment plan and see their eye doctor regularly.
Find support
International organisations
Local organisations
- RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People) ↗ · United Kingdom
- International Glaucoma Association ↗ · United Kingdom
Helplines
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
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Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 30, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.