Changes in vision with age are normal. Eventually, most people become dependent on reading glasses, prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses. But changes in your vision could also be attributed to a more serious eye condition.

How do you know if you should be concerned about your changing vision?

Key-Whitman has collected a set of eye condition simulators that allow you to see what your vision would look like if you had one of a number of common eye conditions, including: cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and retinal detachment.

Cataracts: A cataract forms when the lens of the eye becomes clouded and blocks the passage of light to the retina. Cataracts affect your vision and can progress gradually over time. How quickly the cataract develops varies among individuals.

Watch the cataract simulator here.

Glaucoma: Glaucoma is a condition in which the fluid in the eye does not flow normally, resulting in high pressure inside the eye. When pressure rises inside the eye, optic nerve damage and blind spots develop. If the entire optic nerve is destroyed, blindness will result.

Watch the glaucoma simulator here.

Macular degeneration: Macular degeneration is a process of wear and tear on the central part of the retina. This in turn causes a loss in your central vision. It can affect your ability to read, drive and see straight ahead clearly.

Watch the macular degeneration simulator here.

Diabetic retinopathy: Diabetic retinopathy is a condition in the back of the eye caused by diabetes, which can lead to a significant loss of vision. It is one of the most frequent causes of retinal blindness in the world.

Watch the diabetic retinopathy simulator here.

Retinal detachment: Retinal detachment is a disorder of the eye in which the retina peels away from its underlying layer of support tissue. Initial detachment may be localized, but without rapid treatment the entire retina may detach, leading to vision loss and blindness.

Watch the retinal detachment simulator here.

If you have experienced any changes in your vision that resemble what you’ve seen on any of the Key-Whitman eye condition simulators, schedule an appointment for a comprehensive eye exam. The earlier these eye conditions are detected and treated, the better your chances of preserving your vision.

Any changes in vision warrant a call to your eye doctor. Although changes may be easily corrected via prescription lenses or LASIK eye surgery, some eye conditions may also signal other serious health problems.

Contact Key-Whitman today to schedule an appointment.