crusty eyes in hamster

Question
Hello,

We have an almost 3 year old long hair teddy bear hamster.  Recently his eyes have become crusted.  His mood is still sweet in that I can hold him and love on him and he doesn't bite.  He is still eating but not as much as usual.  His brother (caged in a different room and cage) passed away on Thursday of last week. The vet said it was old age.  Can this be happening to Mr Snickers?
thanks

Answer
Mr. Snickers is pretty old and yes it is because of old age and he probably has an eye infection too. You can take him to a vet and see if they can give him antibiotics but Mr. Snickers is getting very old. Hamsters live 2-3 years and dwarf hamster live 1-2 years. You've taken awesome care of both of them and they know it.