Maintaining sharp vision is one of the most valuable gifts we can give ourselves as we age. In a recent conversation with Steve Gurney of the Positive Aging Community, Dr. Amir H. Marvasti, MD, FACS, a board-certified ophthalmologist practicing in Orange County, California, shared practical, encouraging advice on preventing and treating common eye conditions.
Born in Texas and raised in Iran before returning to the U.S. for his medical training at Boston University, UCLA, and UC San Diego, Dr. Marvasti was inspired to enter ophthalmology after witnessing a Family member’s struggle with vision loss. He views the field as uniquely rewarding because vision is such a personal and deeply human sense.
The Power of Early Screening
Dr. Marvasti emphasizes that most serious eye conditions develop with age and often show few early symptoms. By the time noticeable problems appear, treatment options may be more limited.
Key recommendations:
See an eye doctor in young adulthood even if nothing feels wrong.
In your 40s: Every couple of years.
In your 60s: Annually.
Sooner if you have a family history of eye disease, Diabetes, or glaucoma.
Conditions like glaucoma (which silently damages peripheral vision through high eye pressure) and early cataracts can progress without obvious warning signs. Early detection preserves more options.
Digital Eye Strain in the Screen Age
With increased computer, tablet, and phone use, many experience “digital eye syndrome.” We blink less when focused on screens, leading to dryness, strain, and headaches.
Practical tips from Dr. Marvasti:
Follow the 20/20/20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to relax eye muscles.
Use preservative-free artificial tears (brands like Refresh, Blink, or Systane) when eyes feel dry. Avoid Visine long-term as it can worsen redness.
Ensure you have the correct prescription, especially computer or reading glasses. Many in their 50s and 60s benefit from dedicated computer lenses or progressives.
Cataracts: A Highly Treatable Age-Related Issue
Cataracts occur when the eye’s natural lens clouds, and they eventually affect nearly everyone. Modern cataract surgery is a quick (often 7–10 minute), transformative outpatient procedure.
Advancements in lens implants can now reduce or eliminate the need for glasses for distance, reading, or both — offering significant quality-of-life improvements. Dr. Marvasti notes that patients often describe the world becoming dramatically brighter and clearer post-surgery.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD affects the macula (central retina responsible for fine detail and color vision) and is the leading cause of vision loss in older adults. Risk factors include age, genetics, and smoking (the most modifiable risk).
Two main types:
Dry AMD: More common, progresses more slowly.
Wet AMD: Involves leaky blood vessels and can cause faster central vision loss.
Warning signs: Blurry central vision, wavy lines, or distortion when looking at straight objects. Early detection through regular exams is crucial. Treatments (injections and light therapies) have improved dramatically, often reducing injection frequency to every few months while preserving vision.
Floaters: Usually Harmless but Worth Checking
Floaters — those specks, lines, or “C” shapes that drift across your vision — become more common with age due to changes in the vitreous gel inside the eye. Most are benign, but a sudden increase in floaters requires prompt evaluation to rule out retinal tears or detachment.
The brain often adapts and ignores them over time. Treatment is rarely needed unless severely bothersome (e.g., for pilots or others needing perfect vision).
The Eye-Brain-Body Connection
The eyes offer a unique window into overall Health. Ophthalmologists can visualize blood vessels and the optic nerve (an extension of the brain). Changes may reveal undiagnosed diabetes, high blood pressure, or early signs of neurological conditions.
Importantly, improving vision — especially through cataract surgery — has been shown to support cognitive function and reduce fall risk in older adults. Vision, hearing, and brain health are closely linked.
Final Thoughts
Dr. Marvasti’s message is hopeful: Nearly all major eye conditions are preventable or treatable with timely care. Technology and treatments in ophthalmology are advancing rapidly — what wasn’t possible a few years ago may be today.
Stay proactive. Schedule regular eye exams, protect your eyes from screens and UV light, manage systemic health conditions, and don’t “muscle through” vision changes.
To learn more about Dr. Amir H. Marvasti and his practice, visit:
Coastal Vision Medical Group
This article is based on the June 2026 interview with Dr. Marvasti. Always consult your own eye care professional for personalized medical advice.
