September 21 marks national
”
Take a Loved One to the Doctor Day,
”
and state Ophthalmologists are encouraging Californians to take
a senior relative to see their eye doctor.
By age 65, one third of Americans have a disease that affects
their vision, but many either brush it off as age-related or are
unaware that they have a problem, according to David A. Edwards,
MD, president of the California Academy of Ophthalmology.
September 21 marks national “Take a Loved One to the Doctor Day,” and state Ophthalmologists are encouraging Californians to take a senior relative to see their eye doctor.
By age 65, one third of Americans have a disease that affects their vision, but many either brush it off as age-related or are unaware that they have a problem, according to David A. Edwards, MD, president of the California Academy of Ophthalmology.
Many seniors and their relatives don’t realize that ocular health is an important part of their overall well-being.
If you do not have a regular ophthalmologist (medical eye doctor) and are over 65, call EyeCare America Seniors EyeCare Program at (800) 222-EYES (3937). Their 24-hour service representatives will assess your eligibility to receive a referral for eye exams and care.
Qualifying seniors receive a comprehensive eye exam from one of California’s 677 volunteer ophthalmologists. Any eye conditions discovered at the exam will be treated for up to one year, with no out-of-pocket cost to you.
EyeCare America is a public service foundation tied to the American Academy of Ophthalmology and is the largest public service program in American medicine. They operate programs for seniors as well as those living with glaucoma and diabetes. Eligible callers can be referred to one of 7,500 volunteer ophthalmologists nationwide.
Together, they have provided service to more than 380,000 people and have treated more than 180,000 cases of eye disease.
Visit EyeCareAmerica.org or AllAboutVision.com for more information.
