As we age, our vision tends to deteriorate due to various factors such as age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and decreased flexibility of the eye muscles.

It can be frustrating to experience blurred vision, difficulty reading, and a decrease in visual clarity. However, there are exercises that can help improve view quality and even regain lost vision. In this article, we will explore three exercises that can be beneficial for individuals over 40.

1. Eye Relaxation Exercise

One of the main reasons for poor vision is eye strain caused by extended periods of close-up work, such as staring at a computer screen or reading. The eye relaxation exercise aims to reduce eye strain and improve flexibility.

Here’s how to perform this exercise:.

Step 1: Find a comfortable sitting or lying position in a quiet room.

Step 2: Close your eyes gently and take a few deep breaths to relax.

Step 3: Rub your palms together vigorously until they feel warm. Then, place your warm palms over your closed eyes, allowing the warmth to soothe your eye muscles. Focus on the darkness and let your eyes relax for a few minutes.

Step 4: Slowly open your eyes and blink several times to bring them back to normalcy.

2. Near-Far Focus Shifting

This exercise helps improve the flexibility of the eye muscles responsible for accommodating near and far vision. It is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing difficulty in transitioning between distances.

Follow the steps below to perform the near-far focus shifting exercise:.

Step 1: Sit or stand in a well-lit area with a clear view in front of you.

Step 2: Choose an object that is about 10-20 feet away from you and focus on it for a few seconds.

Step 3: Without moving your head, shift your focus to an object that is within arm’s reach. Again, hold your focus for a few seconds.

Step 4: Repeat this process, shifting focus between near and far objects, for about 5-10 minutes each day.

3. Eye Aerobics

Eye aerobics is a set of exercises that improve blood circulation to the eyes, strengthen the eye muscles, and increase visual acuity. Incorporate the following eye aerobics exercises into your daily routine:.

Exercise 1 – Eye Rolls: Sit or stand with a relaxed posture. Look up and then slowly rotate your eyes in a clockwise direction. Repeat this for about 10 times and then switch to counterclockwise rotations.

Exercise 2 – Near and Distant Focus: Hold a pencil at arm’s length and focus on its point. Slowly bring the pencil closer to your nose while maintaining focus. Move it back to arm’s length.

Repeat this exercise for a few minutes.

Exercise 3 – Figure of Eight: Imagine a large figure of eight (∞) about 10 feet in front of you. Trace the imaginary figure with your eyes, slowly and smoothly. Repeat this exercise in both directions for a few minutes.

Conclusion

While vision naturally changes with age, there are exercises that can help improve view quality and potentially regain lost vision.

The eye relaxation exercise, near-far focus shifting, and eye aerobics exercises are simple and can be incorporated into your daily routine. However, it is vital to remember that these exercises are not a substitute for professional eye care. If you are experiencing significant vision problems, it is advisable to consult an optometrist or ophthalmologist for a comprehensive eye examination.