Vision Therapy in Elgin

Age-Related Dry Eye: Causes and Solutions

(847) 888-1555
Addressing the Challenges of Dry Eyes As We Age

As we age, our bodies undergo various transformations, including changes in our eye health. One common age-related condition that many individuals encounter is dry eye syndrome. Understanding the factors contributing to this condition and how to manage it effectively becomes increasingly crucial as we age.

Dry eye syndrome in older adults often arises from a combination of factors related to aging and other external influences.

woman with sore eyes

Exploring Age-Related Factors Contributing to Dry Eye

man inspecting medication

  • Tear Gland Function

    Our tear gland function may decline as we age, leading to reduced tear production. This decrease in tear volume can result in dryness and discomfort.

  • Environmental Factors

    Seniors may encounter different environmental conditions that exacerbate dry eye symptoms, such as increased indoor heating or air conditioning systems.

  • Medications That Can Cause Dry Eye

    Certain medications commonly prescribed to older adults, such as hypertension tablets, can have side effects that contribute to dry eyes. It's essential to understand how these drugs may impact your eye health.

  • Underlying Medical Conditions

    Age-related health conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases, can also increase the risk of dry eye syndrome. Managing these conditions is integral to overall eye health.

Patient Reviews
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- May. 05, 2024
I was looking for a new pair of glasses at Elgin Family Eye Care. Lexi is a wonderful help! She list... ened to my preferences for frames and helped me to discover several possibilities. (It would have taken me hours to work through the many styles, shapes and frame colors.). She answered my questions and made this experience very pleasant! If you need help picking out new frames, I recommend Lexi!!
- Apr. 28, 2024
They were great
- Apr. 10, 2024
Very friendly staff. Huge selection of glasses to choose from
- Mar. 23, 2024
This is a great eye care place from to start to finish.
- Mar. 23, 2024
Awesome staff--friendly and helpful. Dr. Kennedy is awesome and explained all procedures and results... well. Great selection of eye glasses. They processed everything through with my insurance so it was extremely easy for me.
- Mar. 13, 2024
Great doctors and office staff. Professional and friendly. The providers are very thorough and take ... the time to answer questions, show images and explain any problems or concerns and refer out to other specialist when appropriate!!
- Feb. 29, 2024
Proper care and support. Did not try and sell me things which were unnecessary. They fitted my cur... rent expensive frames with the new lenses with a great final product.
- Feb. 17, 2024
I called at 9:30 am., and there was an opening for an eye exam at 10:30 am. the same day! Both of th... e doctors that I have had appointments with over the past 6 years, have been knowledgeable and thorough. Dr. Brauer discovered I had Narrow Angle Glaucoma, and referred me to an Opthomologist, who performed a Laser Iridotomy.👁
- Jan. 27, 2024
Our whole family sees Dr Kennedy! He’s top Notch!!! All our children totally trust him! He’s so ... kind and gentle to them! Very knowledgeable and thorough for his exams! Had an eye emergency and got right in to see him for a quick fix! Our family cannot say enough about Dr Kennedy! Gil is also very good in optical! Very knowledgeable and helpful!
- Jan. 24, 2024
Bree was excellent in the ‘pre-doctor’ exams. Dr. Kennedy was thorough and I finally feel I have... a true explanation of what is going on with my eyes.
- Jan. 20, 2024
I highly recommend Elgin Family Eye Care to everyone.
- Jan. 05, 2024
Great eye doctor and great staff. Very quick service and friendly staff!
- Dec. 09, 2023
I have been a patient for many, many years. From the moment I walk in and throughout my visit, the ... individuals at the front desk are always professional and friendly. The person who checked me in was also very helpful in answering any questions I had. Dr. Kennedy has always been professional and kind. He is thorough, patient and takes the time to listen to and answer your questions. At this time, I have no intention of going anywhere else for eye care. I have also had great customer service from everyone at Elgin Family EyeCare. Kudos to the staff.
- Nov. 19, 2023
The doctors are very knowledgeable and take their time explaining everything to you. Their sales ass... ociates are also very knowledgeable and take their time assisting you through the eyeglasses and contact purchase.
- Nov. 17, 2023
The staff and Doctors at Elgin Family Eye truly care and it shows in their interactions with patient... s and with each other. They are amazing and you will not be disappointed that you decided to book an appointment with them!
- Nov. 16, 2023
The very best eye doctor ever. Dr. Kennedy is so professional, extremely knowledgeable thorough expl... ains everything answered all your questions. You can tell he’s very caring passionate about his career. Thank you!
- Nov. 10, 2023
I highly recommend Elgin Family Eyecare. Dr. Brauer is wonderful!
- Nov. 08, 2023
The staff are all great - very helpful and kind. They seem interested in preventative care as well, ... with the exam that takes an image of the back of the eye. Never had that done before at any other eye doctor, but it was informative and interesting. Dr Kennedy made me feel comfortable and answered all my questions, even did a quick follow up exam after putting in my new contacts to ensure I had the correct prescription. Great experience!
- Oct. 31, 2023
Always a great experience!
- Oct. 26, 2023
Very helpful, welcoming and professional.

View All 298 Reviews

Eye Comfort Strategies as We Grow Older

Age-related dry eye does not have to be a constant source of discomfort. With the guidance of eye care professionals, seniors can explore various treatment options to alleviate symptoms and improve their quality of life.

  • Customized Treatment Plans

    Eye care specialists can create personalized treatment plans tailored to address the specific needs of seniors with dry eye syndrome.

  • Lifestyle Modifications

    Simple adjustments to daily routines, such as incorporating humidifiers in living spaces or using preservative-free artificial tears, can significantly improve eye comfort.

  • Medication Management

    In cases where medications contribute to dry eye, healthcare providers can explore alternative treatments or adjustments to minimize side effects.

  • Regular Eye Exams

    Routine eye exams are essential for monitoring age-related eye conditions, allowing for early detection and intervention when necessary.

Dry Eyes in Elgin

(847) 888-1555 Schedule Eye Exam

Our optometry practice in Elgin

Meet our Eye Doctors

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Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Saturday 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • MetLife
  • Blue Cross

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Elgin Family EyeCare Prioritizes Your Vision and Comfort

As we journey through life, aging brings changes to our bodies, including our eyes. By understanding the causes and effective management of age-related dry eye, you can enjoy improved eye comfort and clarity, enhancing your well-being in your golden years.

Call Elgin Family EyeCare today to schedule your comprehensive eye exam and discuss personalized dry eye strategies.

(847) 888-1555