The most common causes of vision loss among the elderly are age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts and diabetic retinopathy.
Age-related macular degeneration is characterized by the loss of central vision.
Glaucoma results in visual field loss.
Cataracts cause blurred vision and faded colors among the elderly.
Diabetic retinopathy is characterized by blurred vision and floaters, among other symptoms.
Other conditions include dry or watery eyes and floaters.
Because many of these conditions may initially be asymptomatic, it's critical that elderly patients undergo routine eye exams. The earlier these conditions are detected, the better the treatment outcome.