(HealthNewsDigest.com) - It’s a fact of life. When people reach their senior years, they are at high risk for developing age-related eye diseases that can lead to blindness if not caught and treated in time. The good news is, people can take steps to protect themselves through a simple eye exam.

What You Can Do

During the holiday season or at any time, you can give the gift of sight by connecting an older loved one with an ophthalmologist who can provide eye exams, often at no out-of-pocket cost, through the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s EyeCare America program.

This year-round program is designed for those age 65 and older who have not seen an ophthalmologist, a physician who specializes in medical and surgical eye care, in three or more years. Eligible patients are matched with a nearby volunteer ophthalmologist and receive a medical eye examination and up to one year of care for any condition diagnosed during the initial visit.

Connecting friends and family members with an eye exam may be the most lasting gift you can give. Give the gift of sight to a special senior.

Who Can Help

EyeCare America has helped nearly 2 million people since 1985. Its sight-saving services are made possible through the generous support of the Knights Templar Eye Foundation, Inc., with additional support provided by Alcon.

Learn More

To see if you or others are eligible, visit www.aao.org/eyecareamerica.