Eye infections pose a greater risk to older adults due to physiological changes associated with aging and the presence of comorbidities, which can exacerbate the severity and complications of these conditions.
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Weakened Immune System: As people age, their immune response diminishes, making it easier for infections to establish and harder for the body to combat them. This reduced immunity often leads to longer recovery periods and increases the likelihood of severe outcomes in seniors .
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Delayed Healing: Aging is associated with slower cellular regeneration and reduced blood circulation, which impair the body’s ability to heal. Conditions like diabetes, common in older adults, further delay recovery, heightening the risk of complications from eye infections if not addressed promptly .
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Complications with Existing Conditions: Many seniors already have age-related eye disorders such as glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration. An eye infection can worsen these conditions, potentially leading to accelerated vision loss or permanent damage .
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Reduced Tear Production and Eye Changes: Aging often results in decreased tear production and thinner conjunctival tissue, weakening the eye’s natural defenses against pathogens. This makes older adults more susceptible to infections like conjunctivitis or keratitis .
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Subtle Symptoms and Delayed Diagnosis: Symptoms of eye infections in seniors can be less obvious or mistaken for other age-related issues, leading to delays in seeking treatment. This delay can allow infections to progress, increasing the risk of serious complications such as corneal scarring or vision impairment .
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