GC_Over_50s_March_2024_No_106

10 As you age, it's common for your eyesight to undergo changes, necessitating proactive measures to preserve your vision. Here are six recommendations for maintaining optimum eye health: Opt for a Nutrient-Rich Diet Maintaining a well-balanced diet supports both a healthy weight and optimal vision. Conditions such as obesity, a leading cause of adult vision impairment, can be mitigated through nutritious eating habits. Incorporating the following nutrients into your diet has shown promise in preventing vision loss: Zinc: Found in meat, fish, poultry, whole grains, and dairy products. Lutein: Present in corn, spinach, kale, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts. Vitamin A: Available in dairy products, carrots, kale, spinach, and egg yolks. Vitamin E: Found in eggs, whole grains, vegetable oils, and sunflower seeds. Vitamin C: Present in broccoli, green peppers, potatoes, citrus fruits, and juices. Fatty Acids: Sourced from coldwater fish like rainbow trout, mackerel, and salmon, as well as sunflower and corn oil. Kick the Smoking Habit Smoking is a major contributor to various health issues, including vision loss. It's been linked to conditions such as age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. Prioritise Physical Activity Engaging in at least 20 minutes of exercise per day benefits both your overall health and eye health. Improved blood circulation resulting from exercise aids in the removal of potentially harmful particles from the tiny blood vessels in your eyes. Rigorous activity isn't necessary; a brisk daily walk is usually sufficient. Shield Your Eyes Wearing UV-blocking sunglasses shields your eyes from harmful UV rays, slowing the progression of cataracts caused by direct sunlight. Sunglasses also safeguard your retina from injury and reduce the risk of skin cancer around the eyes. Additionally, protective eyewear should be worn when engaging in activities such as sports or working with materials like wood or metal to prevent eye injuries from debris or projectiles. Practice Eye Rest Extended screen time without frequent blinking can lead to eye strain and dryness. Adhering to the 20-20-20 rule—taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes to focus on something 20 feet away—can alleviate eye strain and fatigue. Schedule Regular Eye Exams Routine eye exams are crucial for detecting potential eye conditions before they manifest symptoms and cause irreversible vision loss or blindness. Paris Miki Optical’s Store Manager Michael has over 30 year’s experience as a qualified Optical technician and has been working in the area for over 23 years. There is an onsite workshop for quicker spectacle making, so you don’t have to be without your own frames for weeks if we are using your own frame for new lenses; repairs can be done onsite and same day service is available on in store stock lenses. See advert front cover Safeguard Your Eyesight Book lovers and storytellers rejoice for the 31st annual Somerset Storyfest Writers' Festival! This year's festival will see 40 of the country’s most celebrated authors, illustrators and artists converge on the Gold Coast to inspire the next generation of writers and avid readers. In between daily sessions with authors and book signings at the Book Shop, you can also revel in a series of special public events including the Prologue Party with special guest Emma Memma, the annual Literary Lunch with Marina Kamenev, Gran Slam Live and the annual Craig Bassingthwaighte Long Table Dinner. Some of these are ticketed events so get in early to secure your spot. The Somerset Storyfest runs from Monday, 25 March till Wednesday, 27 March, 9am to 9pm. For more information > www.storyfest.com.au Somerset College, Somerset Drive, Mudgeeraba. Gold Coast Over 50’s magazine covers the Gold Coast from Beenleigh to Tweed Heads, giving you the opportunity to reach your local target market. Get Your Message Across to Your Local Target Market! Advertise with Gold Coast Over 50s Magazine For advertising call Geoff 0411 134 507 or 5527 0314 geoff@localnewsletters.com l www.localnewsletters.com Gold Coast Over Fifties Magazine DONATE BLOOD, SAVE LIVES. Do something special. Give blood. Call 13 14 95 download the app or donateblood.com.au 1 in 3 Australians will need blood in their lifetime. Only 1 in 30 people currently donate.

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NjM5MTE=