Making a Home Safer with Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, potentially leading to vision loss and blindness. It's often associated with increased intraocular pressure, but can also occur with normal pressure. Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide.

Living with glaucoma can make everyday tasks challenging, especially when it comes to safely moving around your home. The loss of peripheral vision, or "side vision," can turn a familiar room into a difficult obstacle course. But with a few simple changes, you can create a safer, more comfortable living space for yourself or a loved one.

Organize for Easy Access

Think about where you place everyday items. For someone with glaucoma, finding things can be a challenge.

• Keep things close. When you set the table, place utensils and plates directly in front of the person, rather than off to the side.

• Create designated spots. Always put keys, glasses, and medications in the same, easy-to-reach spot. This prevents the frustration of searching for them later.

• Label everything. Use large, bold print to label items in your pantry, medicine cabinet, or on appliances. This can make it much easier to identify what you need.

  
  

Brighten and Clarify

Glaucoma can make it hard to see objects that don't stand out. Using color and light can make a big difference.

• Use high-contrast colors. Choose items like a dark tablecloth on a light table, or a light-colored blanket on a dark couch. This helps a person with glaucoma distinguish between the items and their surroundings.

• Improve lighting. Make sure your home is well-lit. Use bright lights in hallways, stairways, and any area where a person might be walking.

Clear the Way

One of the biggest risks for someone with vision loss is tripping. A simple change to your floor can prevent a fall.

• Declutter your walkways. Remove any furniture, cords, or clutter from the main paths in your home. This ensures there's a clear, unobstructed route to walk.

• Secure your rugs. Remove any loose rugs or mats that can slip or cause a trip. If you need a rug, make sure it has non-slip backing.

• Store things safely. Use shelves or baskets to keep small items off the floor, which helps prevent tripping hazards.

Communicate Clearly

Remember that glaucoma also affects how a person perceives others in a room.

• Approach from the front. Always approach someone with glaucoma from the front so they can see you coming.

• Announce yourself. Speak to the person as you approach to let them know you are there. This prevents them from being startled by a sudden arrival.

A Note on Treatment

While these tips can help improve safety at home, they are not a replacement for medical care

. The vision loss caused by glaucoma cannot be reversed. However, regular checkups and treatment can help slow or even stop the progression of the disease. Early detection is key, so don’t skip your eye doctor appointments.

For more information about caring for a person with vision deficiencies, please contact the experienced staff of Living Well at 940-215-0209.