The Texas Ophthalmological Association in partnership with EyeCare America, a national nonprofit organization that provides eye exams and eye health information to medically under-served communities, offers five tips for a healthy aging eyes in honor of September's Save Your Sight Month.

"We find that many people don't pay attention to their annual health until something goes wrong," said Dr. Michelle A. Berger, president of the Texas Ophthalmological Association. "By providing tips for a healthy aging eye during Save Your Sight Month, we are hoping to encourage seniors to be more proactive in the care of their eyes and vision."

• Have eyes examined annually. As one grows older, there is an increasing risk for cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. Early diagnosis and treatment are extremely important for protecting vision, and when possible, preventing permanent loss.

• Review and address family history of eye disease. Anyone with a family member with an eye disease, such as glaucoma, cataracts, diabetes or age-related macular degeneration, is at greater risk of developing these diseases. At the next family gathering, remember to ask relatives if anyone has an eye disease and/or tell them if you do. Doing so is a proactive measure to save one's sight and the sight of one's family.

• Protect eyes from the sun. Spending long hours in the sun without eye protection can damage eyes by contributing to cataracts, macular degeneration and growths on the eye, including cancer. Remember to wear 99 percent and above UV-absorbent sunglasses and a brimmed hat whenever out in the sun for long periods of time.

• Keep eyes well lubricated. Tear production normally decreases as one ages. Dry eye can occur -- when the eye stops producing enough tears for healthy eyes. Take steps to prevent tears from evaporating by using a humidifier, wearing wrap-around glasses and avoiding overly warm, dry rooms, hair dryers, wind and smoke.

• See if you qualify for a free eye exam. To see if you, a loved one or a friend age 65 or older is eligible to receive a referral for an eye exam and care, phone (800) 222- 3937.

The Seniors EyeCare Program help line operates 24 hours a day, all year long.

The Texas Ophthalmological Association encourages seniors to phone EyeCare America Seniors EyeCare Program which offers eye exams and up to one year of medical care and/or surgical care at no out-of-pocket cost for seniors without a medical eye doctor.

In Texas, EyeCare America and its 360 volunteer ophthalmologists have served nearly 32,000 people.

EyeCare America's Seniors EyeCare Program is designed for U.S. citizens or legal residents age 65 and older who have not seen an ophthalmologist in three years or more and do not belong to an HMO or the VA.

Volunteer physicians have agreed to accept Medicare or other insurance as payment in full, resulting in no out-of-pocket cost to the patient. Individuals without insurance of any kind are seen at no charge.

For more information, visit eyecareamerica.org.