Vision Therapy in Ocala

Age-Related Dry Eye: Causes and Solutions

(352) 512-0560

Addressing the Challenges of Dry Eyes As We Age

As we age, our bodies undergo various transformations, including changes in our eye health. One common age-related condition that many individuals encounter is dry eye syndrome. Understanding the factors contributing to this condition and how to manage it effectively becomes increasingly crucial as we age.

Dry eye syndrome in older adults often arises from a combination of factors related to aging and other external influences.

woman with sore eyes


Exploring Age-Related Factors Contributing to Dry Eye

man inspecting medication

  • Tear Gland Function

    Our tear gland function may decline as we age, leading to reduced tear production. This decrease in tear volume can result in dryness and discomfort.

  • Environmental Factors

    Seniors may encounter different environmental conditions that exacerbate dry eye symptoms, such as increased indoor heating or air conditioning systems.

  • Medications That Can Cause Dry Eye

    Certain medications commonly prescribed to older adults, such as hypertension tablets, can have side effects that contribute to dry eyes. It's essential to understand how these drugs may impact your eye health.

  • Underlying Medical Conditions

    Age-related health conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases, can also increase the risk of dry eye syndrome. Managing these conditions is integral to overall eye health.


Eye Comfort Strategies as We Grow Older

Age-related dry eye does not have to be a constant source of discomfort. With the guidance of eye care professionals, seniors can explore various treatment options to alleviate symptoms and improve their quality of life.

  • Customized Treatment Plans

    Eye care providers can create personalized treatment plans tailored to address the specific needs of seniors with dry eye syndrome.

  • Lifestyle Modifications

    Simple adjustments to daily routines, such as incorporating humidifiers in living spaces or using preservative-free artificial tears, can significantly improve eye comfort.

  • Medication Management

    In cases where medications contribute to dry eye, healthcare providers can explore alternative treatments or adjustments to minimize side effects.

  • Regular Eye Exams

    Routine eye exams are essential for monitoring age-related eye conditions, allowing for early detection and intervention when necessary.

Patient Reviews
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1056 Reviews
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- Mar. 10, 2026
The staff is friendly and there was virtually no waiting.
- Mar. 08, 2026
They have very good customer service knowledgeable and very thorough.
- Mar. 07, 2026
I had tried another eye care center in the area and was quite disappointed with their lack of servic... e. I came across the Eye Care Center of Ocala on-line and after reading the reviews I decided to give them a try. Setting up the appointment on-line was easy, and I was able to be seen the same day! I arrived about 10 minutes early and was greeted kindly at the reception desk. I was asked a few simple questions and then I was able to fill out the questionnaire on an electronic tablet device, which was convenient. I was called back on time into the exam area and greeted by the technician/assistant who was professional and efficient. The eye exam lasted about 45 minutes and at the end, Dr. Castello came in and introduced himself in a pleasant and professional manner; he then discussed and reviewed the exam with the technician/assistant. Dr. Castello performed a few more eye test and asked some follow up questions to my satisfaction. The exam was completed and I thanked both the Dr. and the technician/assistant. I then proceeded to the eye wear section and greeted in a short period of time and reviewed their eye wear selection. The assistant was professional and helped me find a frame that was of good quality and at a fair price. I made the payment for the visit and the eye wear at her desk and prior to leaving, she said my glasses should be in around 2-weeks, and I would be notified via a text. Less than 2-weeks later, I received a text that my new glasses arrived. I again was greeted in a professional manner, and I picked the glasses up in the eye wear area and can see clearly now. I would recommend the Eye Care Center of Ocala for eye care to anyone looking for an eye care specialist. The facility is clean and the staff is friendly, courteous, and a pleasure to deal with.
- Mar. 04, 2026
Dr. Strucko is an excellent doctor! We have been going to her for our eye care need for many years.... We would not think of going anywhere else. If you want a caring, thoughtful and excellent doctor, go see Dr. Strucko.
- Feb. 25, 2026
Eye care center of Ocala is amazing they have great people to help you from start to finish! They go... above and beyond! The girl who took care of me first was very sweet kind and patient! Very knowledgeable! The dr was great to! Last but not least, Mitch! He was so helpful! Again he went above and beyond to help me! He was very knowledgeable and kind! He checked all the boxes! Didn’t miss a beat!
- Feb. 15, 2026
This was my 3rd year in a row here. Exceptional treatment.
- Feb. 14, 2026
Very friendly and welcoming staff from the front desk, assitsnt, and the doctor. They have always t... aken good care of me not only during my regular eye exams but also when I had an eye emergency.
- Feb. 13, 2026
Friendly and professional service
- Feb. 11, 2026
Great
- Feb. 02, 2026
In and out effeciently, thorough and friendly. Will come back
- Jan. 31, 2026
I had an excellent experience with my eye doctor. From the moment I walked in, the staff was welcomi... ng and professional. The doctor took the time to explain everything clearly, answered all my questions, and made sure I felt comfortable throughout the visit. The exam was very thorough, and I never felt rushed. Highly recommend for anyone looking for quality eye care. Tambien hablan español!
- Jan. 30, 2026
I have been going to eyecare center since I moved here 3 years ago. I always have a great experienc... e. Dr. Costello and his asst are wonderful. Very knowledgeable , very kind ,answer all my questions. Office is very clean. They have the latest technology. I am very happy .
- Jan. 27, 2026
I must say, I’ve wore glasses for most of my life, but the treatment I received at the Eye Center ... of Ocala was beyond exceptional. Lane and Gailyn we’re absolutely fantastic! I was so impressed with the customer service and the treatment. I’m usually a tough critic, but those two ladies made an exceptional impression on me. I highly recommend if you need glasses or contacts, ask for those ladies. They should be commended.
- Jan. 09, 2026
Full eye care center. Friendly, helpful staff. Process is streamlined and generally time efficient.
- Dec. 30, 2025
The staff were extremely helpful, knowledgeable, and pleasant. Highly recommend for your optometry n... eeds.
- Dec. 17, 2025
My first visit to EyeCare Center of Ocala was truly exceptional. Having visited numerous providers i... n the past, this is the first practice I would recommend without reservation. Ashley was incredibly kind and professional, addressing all my questions with a refreshing, personable approach. Dr. Geering was equally impressive; she is a compassionate listener who ensured every concern was thoroughly addressed. This was, without a doubt, the best eye exam experience I’ve ever had, and I look forward to referring my friends and family.
- Dec. 05, 2025
Extremely competent service, from the receptionist to the doctor, all very kind and friendly people,... I recommend them to everyone.
- Nov. 18, 2025
What a great place! I went for my annual eye exam with the intention of being fitted for contacts, a... s Ive never had them before. During my exam, I expressed my concerns, like not being able to touch my eye, hesitant to eye drops etc. They essentially said that I would be fine and that if we couldnt make it work, it wasnt a big deal. So we did the normal eye exam, whats better 1 or 2?... 1 or 2? 2 or 3?... 2 or 3? Pretty routine. The Dr, I believe her name was Rebecca was absolutely fantastic. She was fun and we laughed together as she completed the eye exam with my highly light sensitive eyes. After that I had to go through "insertion and removal training". I thought I was already an expert in that, but apparently they were speaking specifically to contacts. Who knew? I sat with Cristine and she went over the training with me. She was super patient and encouraging. She helped correct what I was doing and gave me pointers. At the end of it, I had successfully inserted and removed my CONTACTS 2x each. I was there at the office for a total of about 3.5hrs when it was all said and done but i accomplished what i needed to. Fast forward 4 days to my contact fitting follow up exam. So normally this is done within 7 days-ish but mine were bothering me and something needed to give. So when I arrived to my appointment I checked in and was called back about 10min afterwards by Ashley. And let me tell you, Miss Ashley is an absolute gem. She was so kind, fun and knowledgeable. It was clear that she knew what she was doing from the start. I explained all my issues and she said okay let's address each of them one by one. And she did, and provided reasons for each and solutions/potential solutions. She gave me options and explained each and every one in detail in a way I could understand it. She went over it multiple times making sure I knew what she was explaining. She brought me new contact lens options and helped me fine tune my CONTACT insertion technique. She was a huge help. After leaving there today I feel much better having talked with Ashley and her expertise. Would I go back? Would I recommend this place to others? Absolutely yes! If you have a contact lens fitting, you MUST request Ashley. I cant see how anyone could be better at their job than her. Well done!
- Nov. 07, 2025
I visited on Nov. 6, 2025, to purchase new glasses and was immediately greeted and checked in. Withi... n five minutes, I was helped by Heidi M., who was friendly, kind, and professional. In just 30 minutes, Heidi M. explained my options, helped me select frames, and completed all necessary measurements for my new glasses. This was the best experience I have ever had at an optical center during the 30 years I've been wearing glasses.
- Oct. 24, 2025
Not my personal experience, but my boyfriend said it was the best experience he has EVER had with a ... doctor.

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Dry Eyes in Ocala

Our optometry practice in Ocala

Photograph of Rebecca Geering
Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 4:30 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Spectera
  • Superior Vision
  • Davis Vision
  • Anthem
  • EyeMed
  • Blue Cross

man in examination

Eye Care Center of Ocala Prioritizes Your Vision and Comfort

As we journey through life, aging brings changes to our bodies, including our eyes. By understanding the causes and effective management of age-related dry eye, you can enjoy improved eye comfort and clarity, enhancing your well-being in your golden years.

Call Eye Care Center of Ocala today to schedule your comprehensive eye exam and discuss personalized dry eye strategies.

(352) 512-0560