What disorder is characterized by oxidative damage leading to cloudy lenses in older adults?

Cataracts are characterized by the formation of cloudy lenses, which is primarily caused by oxidative damage that occurs over time. In older adults, this oxidative stress can lead to changes in the proteins of the lens, resulting in the lens becoming opaque, which impairs vision.

Oxidative damage is a process that involves the accumulation of free radicals, which are highly reactive molecules that can cause cellular damage. As individuals age, their ability to repair this damage decreases, making the lens of the eye more susceptible to clouding. Cataracts can develop gradually and are a common condition in older populations, often requiring surgical intervention when they significantly affect vision.

In contrast, macular degeneration relates to the deterioration of the macula, the central part of the retina, leading to loss of central vision. Glaucoma involves damage to the optic nerve typically associated with increased intraocular pressure. Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina. While all these conditions are related to vision and can affect older adults, cataracts specifically involve oxidative damage resulting in cloudy lenses.