Seniors (over 60 years)
Your advocate for senior eye wellness
Senior patients over age 60 are prone to developing certain types of eye conditions and disease. Thus, for this age group, excellent regular medical attention is critical for achieving best outcomes and maximum independence, and specifically for preserving one’s precious vision.
York Family Eyecare is proud to see many patients in their golden years; a good number of our seniors’ entire families are seen by Dr. Pelletier. These discriminating elders enjoy our elegant-yet-relaxed office environment, and our convenient location just off the highway, near York Hospital and York Beach. They value the combination of small-town warmth and world-class care that our experienced eye doctor brings.
Dr. Pelletier takes his role as a primary care physician and educator very seriously. As somebody who comes from a large and close-knit family, he has a deep respect for the elderly. He has a great rapport with this age group, and understands that families also need to be involved in the care of our seniors for true patient satisfaction.
How Dr. Pelletier goes the extra mile for senior patients
- His patients receive extremely thorough eye exams to identify any “silent” ocular issues in this age group that don’t carry symptoms.
- Seniors and their caregivers are educated on common issues for this age group, such as vision loss and difficulties driving, and the loss of independence and even depression that can result. The social and emotional aspects of these issues are acknowledged and discussed as needed, so patients feel heard and understood.
- Those with certain medical conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, and those taking certain medications, are closely followed for visual side effects. In fact, Dr. Pelletier has referred a handful of patients straight to the hospital from their eye exam with concerns about about their medical status. Several times this has proven to be medically imperative.
Why proactive, ongoing eyecare matters
Taking care of one’s eyes during the senior years, especially by having regular check-ups, can greatly influence one’s quality of life. That’s because eye doctors have limited treatment options once a diagnosis of visual impairment exists.
Certain late-onset diagnoses are common for seniors, and can cause varying degrees of vision loss if not detected and treated early. Most commonly, these are:
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
- Diabetic Retinopathy
- Retinal detachment
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Dry eye
The good news is that Dr. Pelletier is “famous” for proactive eye exams and cutting-edge medical technology for the best chances of early detection. He works tirelessly to preserve every patient’s vision.
Regular eye & vision exams for health
Being followed regularly as a senior patient is a key way to maximize personal independence and comfort during the “golden years.”
The American Optometric Association recommends eye examinations every year for senior patients 61 years and older.*
Many seniors also benefit from a low-vision rehabilitative program designed by Dr. Pelletier. Whatever the patient’s particular visual deficiencies, a customized program enables them to leverage their remaining visual skills for daily living.
It is our honor to be entrusted with your eyecare as a senior, and that of future generations of your family.
*PLEASE NOTE that seniors considered to be at risk for the development of eye and vision problems may need additional testing or more frequent re-evaluation. Don’t hesitate to call us if you require additional guidance regarding your particular needs.