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3660 Northeast Ralph Powell Road, Lee's Summit, MO 64064
3660 Northeast Ralph Powell Road, Lee's Summit, MO 64064

Age-Related Dry Eye: Causes and Solutions

Addressing the Challenges of Dry Eyes As We Age

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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.

An elderly woman wearing glasses and a beige cardigan is holding her forehead with her left hand, possibly feeling tired or experiencing a headache. She is looking down with her eyes closed, possibly in a room. She is holding a pair of glasses with her right hand, which has a silver frame. She is probably trying to relieve her headache by resting her head on her hand.
An older man in a red polo shirt is looking at a bottle of pills in his hand.

Exploring Age-Related Factors Contributing to Dry Eye

  • 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.

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 providers 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.

Patient Reviews

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466 Reviews
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Amy D. - Aug 21, 2026
We recently switched to this practice due to insurance changes, and while I was sad to leave our old... eye doctor, this office made the transition easy. My daughter is profoundly deaf and communicates using ASL. Their standard practice is to use a digital/iPad interpreter, but I explained that an in-person interpreter works much better for her, especially as a young child — sign language is a visual language, and a screen interpreter is a lot harder for a kid to fully engage with. They listened, and without any pushback, arranged an in-person interpreter for her appointment. It meant a lot that they were willing to adjust their normal process based on what actually works for my daughter, rather than just defaulting to what’s easiest for them. Great experience, and we’re glad to be patients here.
Marion M. - Aug 20, 2026
Staff at Custom Eyes were friendly, caring and professional. I go back there every time for reliable... optical information.
View All 466 Reviews

Dry Eyes in Lee's Summit

(816) 524-7400
3660 Northeast Ralph Powell Road
Photograph of Brooke Peterson

Meet our Eye Doctors
Hours
  • Monday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday By Appointment Only
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Spectera
  • Davis Vision
  • EyeMed
  • Superior Vision
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
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CustomEyes - Lee's Summit 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 CustomEyes - Lee's Summit today to schedule your comprehensive eye exam and discuss personalized dry eye strategies.

(816) 524-7400

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