Years of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays may increase your chances of getting cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, which are the main causes of vision loss among older people.

So when you head outdoors -- in cloud, sun, or snow -- shield your eyes. Sunglasses do more than stop your squinting in bright sunlight. Ideally, if you've bought the right pair, they also protect your eyes from the sun's damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Select a pair that block at least 99 percent of UV rays. Don't use color or cost as your guide. Remember, darker lenses don't mean more cover. In fact, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), they may actually do more harm than good because when your wear dark sunglasses, your pupils widen to let in more light.

The AAO recommends you also take these steps for maximum eye protection:

• They may not be your idea of a fashion statement, but wraparound sunglasses stop UV light from shining around the frames and into your eyes.
• For ultimate cover, wear a broad-rimmed hat, even on cloudy days. The sun's rays can penetrate haze and thin cloud.
• Even if you wear contact lenses coated with UV protection, remember your shades.
• It's especially important to shield your eyes in the early afternoon, when UV light is most intense and in higher altitudes.

More information

For more on sun protection, visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.