How are the increased needs of the elderly met?
Over the next 30 years the number of people 65 years of age and older will double. Unfortunately, the prevalence of eye disease is much greater among the elderly. To meet this growing need, doctors of optometry have developed several different programs to address the issue of eye care and aging. Over the next 30 years the number of people 65 years of age and older will double. Unfortunately, the prevalence of eye disease is much greater among the elderly. To meet this growing need, doctors of optometry have developed several different programs to address the issue of eye care and aging.

First, optometrists frequently visit senior citizen homes and clubs to offer free eye care services to those seniors who would not normally receive proper treatment. Secondly, the Boston Optometric Center (BOC) runs a mobile eye unit which visits several elderly communities and offers eye exams. In addition, optometrists also provide counseling and literature on eye problems associated with aging to several organization and senior citizen events, including the Neighborhood Aging Network Conference for Vulnerable Minority Elderly.