In the U.S., about 12 million people over the age of 40 have vision impairment. This includes conditions such as digital eye strain, age-related macular degeneration, and dry eye, all of which are becoming increasingly prevalent.
Adults and children can enhance eye health by implementing the following strategies:2•3
1. Reduce Screen Time: Prolonged exposure to digital devices can lead to digital eye strain, which can lead to symptoms like dryness, blurred vision, and headaches. Take regular breaks from screens to lessen the strain on your eyes.
2. Adopt the 20-20-20 Rule: When using digital devices, every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple practice helps to rest your eyes and reduce the discomfort associated with prolonged screen use.
3. Get Regular Eye Exams: Schedule comprehensive
eye exams at least once every two years, or more frequently if you have existing eye conditions or a family history of eye diseases. Dilated eye exams can help detect vision loss early.2
4. Optimize Lighting: Ensure that your workspace is well-lit to minimize glare and reduce eye strain. Opt for softer, indirect lighting when possible. When outdoors, wear sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB radiation.
5. Adjust Screen Settings: Increase the contrast and adjust the brightness of your monitor to a comfortable level. This adjustment can lessen eye fatigue and make reading text on screens more comfortable.
6. Quit Smoking: Smoking increases your risk of diseases like macular degeneration and cataracts. If you smoke, you can call 800-QUIT-NOW (800-784-8669) to get help with quitting.
7. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Incorporate foods rich in vitamins and antioxidants, such as leafy greens,
fish, and nuts, into your diet. Nutrients like lutein in tomatoes, zeaxanthin in kale, and omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish, support eye health and can help prevent age-related vision problems.
When detected early, vision loss can often be prevented or delayed.1 Taking proactive steps today to care for your eyes can significantly reduce your risk of developing irreversible eye damage.
1.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Fast Facts: Vision Loss." May 15, 2024. Accessed October 26, 2024.
2.
National Eye Institute. "8 Things You Can Do Right Now to Protect Your Vision." November 1, 2022. Accessed October 26, 2024.
3.
Mayo Clinic. "Eye Health: Tips for Keeping Your Eyes Healthy." Accessed October 26, 2024.
Read Full Article: 8 Ways to Improve Eye Health