Vision Therapy in Pittsburgh

Age-Related Dry Eye: Causes and Solutions

(412) 788-4664
Addressing the Challenges of Dry Eyes As We Age

As we age, our bodies undergo various transformations, including changes in our eye health. One common age-related condition that many individuals encounter is dry eye syndrome. Understanding the factors contributing to this condition and how to manage it effectively becomes increasingly crucial as we age.

Dry eye syndrome in older adults often arises from a combination of factors related to aging and other external influences.

woman with sore eyes

Exploring Age-Related Factors Contributing to Dry Eye

man inspecting medication

  • Tear Gland Function

    Our tear gland function may decline as we age, leading to reduced tear production. This decrease in tear volume can result in dryness and discomfort.

  • Environmental Factors

    Seniors may encounter different environmental conditions that exacerbate dry eye symptoms, such as increased indoor heating or air conditioning systems.

  • Medications That Can Cause Dry Eye

    Certain medications commonly prescribed to older adults, such as hypertension tablets, can have side effects that contribute to dry eyes. It's essential to understand how these drugs may impact your eye health.

  • Underlying Medical Conditions

    Age-related health conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases, can also increase the risk of dry eye syndrome. Managing these conditions is integral to overall eye health.

Patient Reviews
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- Mar. 27, 2024
I absolutely love my new glasses! Jess is fabulous and very intuitive. She has a great sense of what... the clients styles are. She helped me pick my glasses out. She was very patient and understanding with my own indecisiveness. They were all so kind towards me. The Doctor was very thorough and explained everything to me as she did the exam. I have been worrying about possibly having an underlying issue with my eyes the last yr.. yr and a half. But unfortunately I’m just getting old and need readers (in my own words ofc)😆. I read a lot and evr since I’ve been trying to read with my glasses on it makes such a difference. I don’t get the headaches I was getting and the blurry vision afterwards is gone. Also the woman at the front desk that does the scheduling was just a very nice and helpful person. Oh and I dnt want to forget about the 1st woman I seen that did the picture of the back of my eyes and the vision test.. she’s the best! She helped me SO much and was just a joy to talk to while I was with her. It’s like a big family there. The staff is what makes Visionmakers. Truly top tier. I would recommend this office to a family member. Thanks Jess and all the women at Vision makers that I seen that day!🥰. Ps I apologize for being horrible with names!🤦🏼‍♀️
- Mar. 22, 2024
Great staff!!
- Mar. 15, 2024
Great service, friendly staff. They could use a better sign out front.
- Mar. 06, 2024
Got called the day before to confirm my insurance and the day of the visit it was some quick paper w... ork and in to see the eye doctor. Out and looking thru glasses in the next 30m I think and giving great explanations on everything and what my insurance covers. Glasses came in a week later and didn't need to worry about anything with the fittings. Overall very glad I chose them.
- Feb. 21, 2024
Dr Emma Thompson is great. She was able to quickly do my eye exam and then explained the results to... me in a clear and concise manner. Additionally, she laid out my options for vision care as well as gave her recommendation. The front office staff was friendly and efficient as well. I will be recommending VisionMakers to my friends and family
- Feb. 15, 2024
I have been a customer for years--and have always been pleased with the service and the staff. My w... ife and older son both wear glasses and have been using them as well. Jess is always over the top with ideas and insurance questions are answered while you wait. I can't recommend them enough! Certainly worth the trip to Robinson Township! FIVE STARS!!!
- Jan. 20, 2024
I recently got 4 glasses from Vision Markers, the staff was 10/10. They put me in the right lenses f... or the correct use. I got the blue light and glare reduction lenses for my everyday glasses, and it’s a game changer! Worth every penny. The staff seemed to care about my glasses as much as I did. It was truly amazing!
- Dec. 18, 2023
They were kind and knowledgeable. I will return to them for sure
- Jun. 02, 2023
Very professional, great service!
- Sep. 06, 2022
Was there today, the one by Settlers Cabin Park, Jess did a fantastic job taking care of my problem ... with my glasses, Thankyou so very much , Five Stars!!!!!!!!!!!
- Sep. 06, 2022
I will start by saying this is kind of a double sided review. Suzanne was not kind and had a very sn... ooty attitude. She sounds like she has no personality but the other office members were so kind to me about picking out glasses options. Jessica was always my go to, but Jake seems to be a great addition to the office. Not everyone can be perfect, but she really needs to watch her language in front of customers. Suzanne swore a lot and there were children there.
- Sep. 01, 2022
I came in towards the end of the day and Jake was kind enough to take his time and explain what cont... acts I could order. He was very knowledgeable and helped me understand my lens options as well. Keep up the good work!
- Aug. 31, 2022
Always have a great experience at VisionMakers!
- Aug. 23, 2022
The office staff was great. The doctor was thorough and my family was well taken care of. Thank you ... Jess and Jake!
- Jun. 23, 2022
I have been going to VisionMakers for several years now and they are wonderful to deal with! From th... e ease of getting an appointment to the selection of frames, everything is top notch. Dr. Jancaro and his staff are thorough, knowledgeable, and very personable. Definitely recommend them for all your eye care needs.
- Jun. 14, 2022
First time at the Pittsburgh location. Have been a longtime patient at the Kettering location and it... was awesome! Everyone it PIT took great care of me and made me feel like I still had a sense of home here.
- Apr. 13, 2022
Visonmakers makers has been my go to since I moved to Pittsburgh almost 10 years ago. Dr. Jancaro is... knowledgeable, patient, and incredibly approachable. Jess, Sarah, and Susanne are so friendly and great for help with picking the right frames. Ordering and checkout for frames and contacts is a breeze. Go see for yourself!
- Nov. 04, 2021
My husband and I have been going here for many years, and I have recommended many! Always treated we... ll and always satisfied with their service! The doctors have been great there and the current one is friendly, explains any issues in eye exam very well, and I have nothing but good to say about Visionmakers! Jessica has been there a long time and is so personable (as well as all the other front office staff) and is always there to accommodate! They have an excellent warranty/exchange policy which we have had to use. I give them an A++++ Excellent rating!
- Aug. 19, 2021
I am so thankful that I took my son to Visionmakers to get fitted for contacts. Visionmakers class ... for contacts is a must have! Jess was so patient with him. He has anxiety and I wasn't sure if he would be able to do it on his own. Jess was amazing! The eye doctor and staff were very kind and professional.
- Jul. 28, 2021
Wonderful place!! Friendly staff

View All 52 Reviews

Eye Comfort Strategies as We Grow Older

Age-related dry eye does not have to be a constant source of discomfort. With the guidance of eye care professionals, seniors can explore various treatment options to alleviate symptoms and improve their quality of life.

  • Customized Treatment Plans

    Eye care specialists can create personalized treatment plans tailored to address the specific needs of seniors with dry eye syndrome.

  • Lifestyle Modifications

    Simple adjustments to daily routines, such as incorporating humidifiers in living spaces or using preservative-free artificial tears, can significantly improve eye comfort.

  • Medication Management

    In cases where medications contribute to dry eye, healthcare providers can explore alternative treatments or adjustments to minimize side effects.

  • Regular Eye Exams

    Routine eye exams are essential for monitoring age-related eye conditions, allowing for early detection and intervention when necessary.

Dry Eyes in Pittsburgh

(412) 788-4664 Schedule Eye Exam

Our optometry practice in Pittsburgh

Meet our Eye Doctor

Photograph of Emma Thompson
Hours
  • Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Friday Closed
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • EyeMed
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

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VisionMakers - Pittsburgh Prioritizes Your Vision and Comfort

As we journey through life, aging brings changes to our bodies, including our eyes. By understanding the causes and effective management of age-related dry eye, you can enjoy improved eye comfort and clarity, enhancing your well-being in your golden years.

Call VisionMakers - Pittsburgh today to schedule your comprehensive eye exam and discuss personalized dry eye strategies.

(412) 788-4664