Name two common age-related eye conditions that impair vision.

• A. Cataracts and macular edema
• B. Glaucoma and macular edema
• C. Macular degeneration and cataracts
• D. Cataracts and glaucoma

Answer: (D)

Two common age-related eye conditions that impair vision are cataracts and glaucoma.

Cataracts happen when the lens becomes cloudy with age, leading to blurred or faded vision, glare from lights, and trouble with color perception. They are extremely common in older adults and are highly treatable with surgical removal of the cloudy lens and replacement with a clear artificial lens, often restoring clear vision.

Glaucoma is caused by damage to the optic nerve, frequently associated with higher pressure inside the eye. It can start without obvious symptoms but gradually narrows the field of vision, risking peripheral vision loss if not treated. Regular eye exams to monitor eye pressure and optic nerve health are crucial; treatment aims to lower pressure and can include eye drops, lasers, or surgical options to prevent further vision loss.

The other pairings mix in conditions that are less directly tied to aging in the same way or are driven by other health issues (like diabetes for macular edema) rather than being two of the most common age-related vision problems. Cataracts and glaucoma together reflect two of the most prevalent, age-related sources of vision impairment commonly discussed in clinical care and patient education.