Vision Therapy in Elgin

Age-Related Dry Eye: Causes and Solutions

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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.

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.

Patient Reviews
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390 Reviews
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- Jun. 09, 2025
Elgin Family Eye Care is the best of the best. I've been a patient for a few years now, and have had... some issues come up with my vision. All of the staff is always so friendly and helpful. From front desk to check out. I've had the pleasure of being seen by both Doctor Brauer and Kennedy (I had a chance in work schedule that forced me to switch) and both are extremely patient and thorough. They go above and beyond to answer any/all questions to make sure I feel comfortable and informed. Can't recommend this office enough. Best of the best.
- Jun. 02, 2025
I absolutely love Elgin Family Eye care. I have always been treated very well by all the staff and I... have been seeing Dr. Kennedy for the past 10-15 years! He takes the time to listen to you and make sure to come up with the right options for you. I do not even live in Elgin anymore and I still see Dr. Kennedy!
- May. 21, 2025
Thorough eye exam. Treated kindly. Reasonable cost.
- May. 17, 2025
Very nice and helpful!!
- May. 16, 2025
We absolutely love Elgin Family Eye Care! Dr. Andrew Brauer is truly amazing. My kiddos actually loo... k forward to their eye appointments, which says a lot. He has such a warm, calming presence and knows exactly how to talk to children—he explains everything he's doing in ways they can understand, often relating it to things they know from their everyday lives. It makes them feel comfortable, confident, and seen. As a parent, I really appreciate how patient and thorough he is. He takes his time during each visit, never rushes us, and always makes sure all our questions are answered. We always leave feeling cared for and well-informed. Dr. Brauer is a gem, and we’re so grateful to have him as our optometrist!
- Apr. 17, 2025
Great overall experience!!!
- Apr. 15, 2025
Very professional clinic, thorough eye exams, great frame selection, and they have advanced technolo... gy to diagnose eye conditions
- Apr. 10, 2025
I like the time allocated to discuss my broad spectrum if questions. I never feel rushed and all my... questions are addressed in detail. I've attended this facility for over 29 years and really appreciate how attentive Dr Brauer always is to my issues.
- Mar. 21, 2025
The staff & the doctors were wonderful, and accommodating. Very friendly atmosphere while very profe... ssional and knowledgeable.
- Mar. 09, 2025
Staff very nice and professional
- Feb. 06, 2025
The doctors here are fabulous. Brenda helped me get new glasses & she was so sweet.
- Jan. 14, 2025
I always receive excellent customer service and care from the staff and doctors at Elgin Family Eye ... Care
- Jan. 01, 2025
Awesome 👏
- Dec. 30, 2024
Building used to be a bank. Was always curious how they remodeled this place. Still has some of the... bank look to it but they made it into a nice facility. People are nice and did a really great job on the exam!!!. Gotta get your eyes checked every year!
- Dec. 15, 2024
Great experience and high quality services
- Dec. 01, 2024
I first started coming here back in like the mid 90s or maybe earlier than that when we first moved ... to the south Elgin area so like since I’ve been a kid I’ve been coming here and then sometimes I’ve gotten older and changed insurance. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to be a member therefore a time and that really disappointed me but now I’ve got really great insurance and of course there’s no other place. I’d rather be than Elgin Family Eyecare. I trust them and I’m very picky about my eyes. I don’t just let anybody look at them. 🙂
- Nov. 27, 2024
The staff were so kind and helpful.
- Nov. 12, 2024
Dr ONeill has great expertise and conduct. The staff are all kind and helpful.
- Nov. 05, 2024
The staff and Dr. Petroczky were great and made the visit to the eye doctor a pleasant experience
- Oct. 25, 2024
friendly, efficient and professional

View All 390 Reviews

Dry Eyes in Elgin

(847) 888-1555

Our optometry practice in Elgin

Meet our Eye Doctors

Photograph of Andrew Brauer
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 - 6:00 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

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