November is American Diabetes Month. To prevent diabetes-related vision loss, the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends people with diabetes get a dilated eye exam each year. One in four Americans age 65 or older has diabetes, putting them at increased risk for vision loss and blindness. Fortunately, diabetes-related vision loss is largely preventable with regular care. Yet, studies have found a majority of Medicare beneficiaries with diabetes do not get the necessary eye exams.
Traditional Medicare covers 80 percent of the cost of eye exams for people with diabetes. The remaining 20 percent is typically paid for by the patient. If this cost is a concern, EyeCare America may be able to help. This is a public service program of the Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. It can help older Americans get a comprehensive eye exam and up to one year of care at no out-of-pocket cost. Learn more, or see if you or your loved one qualifies at www.eyecareamerica.org.
