Abstract
As the baby boom generation ages, it is anticipated that half a million cases per year will be added to the 19 to 21 million Americans not living in institutions or serving in the military who have low vision or blindness. The 4 major causes of vision loss and blindness in the United States are cataract, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. All 4 diseases involve change in the microcirculation in eye structures. Holistic approaches to health incorporate attention to individuals' lifestyle choices. Relevant research literature was reviewed to identify strategies for lifestyle modification that nurses can use to prevent or slow progression of these diseases. Prevention strategies in general are those that promote avoidance of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Because vision loss has been shown to be associated with diminished quality of life and increased mortality, lifestyle changes that prevent or moderate the impact of these diseases are an important focus of nursing care.