How (and Why) To Pick Out Age-Friendly Sunglasses

As we age, many of us face a variety of common eye problems. It is a normal part of aging, but there are simple steps we can take to reduce these problems. Sunglasses don't just help you look fashionable and provide temporary relief from the sun. They can also protect your eyes from glare, sensitivity, cataracts, and much more, preventing long-term damage.

Therefore, it is important to be selective when shopping for your next set of shades. Here is an informative guide on what you need to look for when shopping for your sunglasses and the benefits of wearing them!

Benefits Of Wearing Sunglasses For Older Adults

Three are so many great reasons to wear sunglasses, regardless of your age. To get started, here are five reasons you should put your shades on next time you go outside!

     1. Eye Protection

Wearing sunglasses will protect your eyes from the sun and other elements such as dust, wind, and sand. Even dust can scratch the cornea, which can lead to permanent damage to the eyes. So, it is always better to be safe and protect your eyes against these elements.

     2. Fewer Migraines And Headaches

Did you know that bright sunlight is a trigger for headaches and migraines? That is why wearing sunglasses can reduce the possibility and intensity of migraines. Even if you don't suffer from these problems, you should still wear sunglasses because they will reduce the strain on your eyes in bright sunlight and reduce fatigue. So, when you are outdoors, especially during the summertime, you will have a more comfortable experience. Even in winters, you should wear sunglasses outside as the reflection from snow on the ground can make it even harder to see through the bright light.

     3. Prevent Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is when the macula starts deteriorating, which causes blurriness and, in extreme cases, blindness. The biggest issue is that the sun's harmful UV rays speed up the process of macular degeneration. To prevent this from happening, you should wear sunglasses for eye protection.

It will prevent the macular degeneration process from speeding up, and your vision will not get blurry. Make sure you have sunglasses that offer protection from UV rays, glare, and much more so you can have complete protection every day.

     4. Winter Protection

Many older adults think they don't need sunglasses in the winters, but that couldn't be further from the truth. You have to protect your eyes in the winter from the glare of ice and snow that reflect UV rays off the ground. These UV rays can seriously harm your eye health.

That is why you should wear sunglasses while you are out in the winters, especially while driving. It will eliminate the need for you to squint, and your eyes will face less strain. In the long run, your eyes will be protected from such problems.

     5. They Look Good

Finally, sunglasses look good, and they are a fashion statement. They come in many colors, sizes, shapes, and much more, so you can choose a style that suits your personality. Wearing sunglasses for eye protection doesn't have to be boring at all.

So, while choosing the right sunglasses, also ensure they suit your personality. You can wear them with anything and everything while protecting your eyes.

Things To Consider When Choosing Sunglasses

Now that we've covered some of the benefits of wearing sunglasses, how do you pick out the right pair? As an older adult, here are the top things you need to consider while choosing sunglasses:

     1. Protection Against UVB And UVA Rays

Did you know that sunglasses can help slow cataract development? Most people who suffer from cataracts are older than forty? Cataracts can result from decades of over-exposure to the sun. To prevent the growth and development of cataracts, you need to protect your eyes from UV rays.

Choosing the right sunglasses can eliminate or delay the need for cataract surgery later in your life. So, choose sunglasses that offer 100% protection against UVB and UVA rays. Your eyes will be shielded from sun exposure, and hopefully, you will not develop cataracts and macular degeneration.

     2. Glare Protection

With age, we become more sensitive to the glare that comes from headlights and sunlight. Such glare can cause headaches and even be a distracting danger when driving. That is why AAA recommends that seniors wear polarized sunglasses during the day to protect themselves against strain related to glare.

So, you should look for sunglasses that offer you complete glare protection. The best way to do this is by shopping for glasses that indicate they are polarized. Wraparound lenses are an excellent choice for such protection as well to ensure the lenses catch more light. However, don't get sunglasses that feel too heavy or obstruct your vision in any way.

     3. Light Sensitivity And Glaucoma Protection

Glaucoma can lead to permanent blindness in adults. Keep in mind that it takes time to progress, and it can be treated but not cured. Therefore, if you are suffering from glaucoma, you need to protect your eyes from glare as much as possible.

According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, you should look for sunglasses with an amber tint and an anti-reflective lens coating. If you want further glare protection, you can also opt for mirrored lenses or a wraparound style. All these features will protect your eyes from light sensitivity and glaucoma.

     4. Impact Resistance

Your sunglasses need to be impact-resistant. That means everything from the lens to the frame should be impact-resistant. If you want the best impact-resistant lenses, you should opt for polycarbonate lenses.

They are high-quality, and they will not quickly be shattered or broken. Such resistance is essential, especially if you work or move around a lot all day. It will ensure your sunglasses last a long time, do not break if they are dropped/sat on, and they do will protect your eye from any flying debris.


So, what are you waiting for? If you are tired of eyestrain and other such problems, invest in a high-quality pair of sunglasses now. They will offer you long-term protection, and you will face fewer eye problems as you age. Prevention is always better. Happy shopping, and enjoy your time outdoors!