Can Cataract Surgery Reduce the Risk of Broken Hips?
Cataract surgery and bone fractures may not appear to have much in common, but the two can actually be associated when one considers the population most affected by cataracts. Typically, cataracts develop in aging eyes, so they are not often diagnosed in patients under the age of 60. Individuals in this elderly population are at a higher risk for falls, which are actually a leading cause of hospitalization for senior citizens. Fractures are likely to occur during impactful falls, and this is especially true if a person’s vision has been impaired by the presence of a cataract.
The effects of poor vision
Blurry, unclear vision is not a side effect of aging that one simply must live with. Although cataracts are common among older individuals, they are by no means untreatable. Still, those living with cataracts may not realize that treatment is available or they may experience such gradual changes to their vision that treatment is not sought. Cataracts develop relatively slowly and get bigger over time, so it is possible for the eyes to gradually adjust to worsening vision quality. The result of this can be unintentional injury and decreased mental alertness.
When surgery makes an impact
With modern bladeless techniques for cataract surgery, cataract removal is an accessible option that should be considered by all patients with cataracts. Clearer vision is a benefit that anyone can enjoy, but it is particularly advantageous for individuals in the 70 to 80 age range. This is the portion of the population who showed the most improvement in hip fracture rates after receiving cataract surgery.
If you want to learn more about how cataract surgery can improve your life, schedule an appointment with Newsom Eye. We will work with you to give you clearer vision that lasts a lifetime. Visit us online or call (888) 380-5289 to learn more about our services.
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