Individuals have a 50 percent chance of developing cataracts by age 80

December 31, 2009

It might surprise many Americans to know that individuals have a 50 percent chance of developing cataracts by the time they are 80 years old. However, cataracts most often occur in people over 55 years old.

According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), a cataract is a cloudy area within the lens of the eye. The condition can make it difficult to distinguish colors, blur vision and reduce patients' ability to see at night.

In order to reduce your chances of developing cataracts, EmpowerHer.com recommends incorporating vitamins A, C and E as well as zinc and beta-carotene into your diet. Wearing sunglasses that block at least 99 percent of UV rays might also prevent cataracts from forming.

Because the changes happen gradually, patients might not notice that their vision has changed. The AOA recommends that adults over 60 years of age schedule regular eye exams so that eye health conditions such as cataracts can be caught and treated early.