Beyond Glaucoma: Living Fully Every Day

Living with glaucoma doesn’t mean giving up on the life you love. With the right approach, minor adjustments, and support from caring people, it’s possible to thrive and stay active. 

At Always Best Care of San Antonio, we’re here to help you navigate the challenges and confidently embrace every day.

Understanding Life With Glaucoma

Glaucoma can make certain activities more challenging, but regular eye care and consistent treatment can help manage its impact. 

Seeing your eye doctor regularly helps catch any changes early, and sticking to prescribed treatments, like eye drops or surgery, helps keep your vision stable.

7 Ways to Promote Bathroom Safety

Bathrooms can be challenging for anyone with vision changes, but thoughtful updates can make them safer and easier to navigate. 

Here’s how to make a difference:

1. Install Grab Bars for Extra Support
   Grab bars near the toilet, shower, and bathtub provide a sturdy grip for sitting, standing, or moving around. These bars can reduce the risk of falls and offer much-needed stability, especially on slippery surfaces. Look for grab bars with a textured surface for added security.
2. Use Non-Slip Mats and Flooring
   If not properly addressed, wet areas like the bathtub, shower, or around the sink can become dangerous. Non-slip mats or adhesive strips significantly reduce the risk of slipping. Opt for mats with suction cups or grips to ensure they stay firmly in place.
3. Upgrade to Motion-Sensor Lighting
   Bright, consistent lighting is essential for those with glaucoma or other vision changes. Motion-sensor lights automatically illuminate the bathroom when you enter, eliminating the need to fumble for switches in the dark.
4. Organize and Simplify Storage
   Keeping frequently used items, such as soap, shampoo, and towels, within easy reach can prevent unnecessary bending or searching. To keep everything tidy and accessible, consider adding labeled bins, pull-out shelves, or caddies.
5. Install a Handheld Showerhead
   A handheld showerhead allows greater control during bathing, reducing the need for unnecessary movement. Pairing it with a shower chair creates a more secure and comfortable experience.
6. Add Raised Toilet Seats and Shower Chairs
   Raised toilet seats with side handles make sitting and standing easier and safer, especially for those with mobility issues. Similarly, a shower chair provides a stable seat for bathing without the risk of slipping or losing balance.
7. Consider Anti-Scald Devices
   Protecting sensitive skin is important; anti-scald devices can regulate water temperature to prevent accidental burns. These devices are easy to install and provide safety for anyone concerned about fluctuating water temperatures.

5 Signs of Decline in Seniors

Living with glaucoma can sometimes draw attention to other changes that come with aging. Recognizing these signs early can help ensure your loved one gets the support they need to maintain their quality of life. 

Here are some common signs to watch for:

1. Frequent Forgetfulness
   Missing appointments, misplacing everyday items, or repeating the same questions can indicate early cognitive decline. While occasional forgetfulness is normal, consistent memory issues may signal conditions like dementia or Alzheimer’s, and addressing these changes promptly can make a big difference.
2. Difficulty with Daily Tasks
   Struggles with cooking, grooming, or cleaning can suggest reduced motor skills or coordination. Tasks once second nature might now feel overwhelming, highlighting the need for additional help to keep up with everyday routines.
3. Loss of Interest in Hobbies or Social Activities
   When someone begins to lose interest in the things they once enjoyed—gardening, reading, or attending social events—it can be a sign of frustration, isolation, or depression. These feelings may stem from vision changes, reduced mobility, or even emotional challenges that must be addressed.
4. Mobility Challenges
   Frequent falls, trouble walking, or an increased reliance on furniture for support are clear indicators of mobility issues. These challenges can lead to greater injury risks and suggest that safety adjustments or mobility aids may be necessary.
5. Withdrawal from Friends and Family
   A loved one who avoids phone calls, skips family gatherings, or spends more time alone may feel overwhelmed, insecure, or embarrassed about their changing abilities. This social withdrawal often indicates emotional struggles that need compassionate attention.

Staying Active and Engaged

Physical activity and social connections are essential for emotional well-being and overall health. 

Low-impact exercises, like walking, tai chi, or swimming, keep you moving without straining your vision. 

Meanwhile, joining community activities or staying connected through video calls with loved ones helps reduce feelings of isolation and uplifts the spirit.

Embracing Support at Always Best Care of San Antonio

Sometimes, a little help can make a world of difference. In-home care assists with household tasks, transportation, and meal preparation, giving you more time to focus on what matters most. Leveraging local resources, like meal delivery services or community programs, adds another support layer.

At Always Best Care of San Antonio, we’re proud to provide the compassionate care families need to navigate the challenges of aging and living with glaucoma. From promoting safety to offering companionship, we’re here to ensure your loved ones live life to the fullest.

Ready to Improve Quality of Life? Contact Always Best Care of San Antonio!

Living with glaucoma or facing the challenges of aging doesn’t mean giving up on a fulfilling life. At Always Best Care of San Antonio, we help seniors maintain their independence, stay safe, and enjoy every day to the fullest.

Contact Always Best Care of San Antonio at (210) 772-2277 to learn more and schedule your free consultation. Let us work together to create a tailored care plan that ensures your loved one’s safety, comfort, and an active, enriching lifestyle.