Five Easy Ways to Save Your Vision

We all agree that good vision is important but how do we keep our eyes healthy? March is Save Your Vision month and here are several simple ways for us to keep our vision intact.

Don’t forget to blink: One of the best ways to keep your eyes healthy is to keep them hydrated. If you spend a lot of time staring at a computer screen, an easy solution is simply blinking. The rate of natural blinking slows down when staring at a screen. Taking short breaks to blink will help hydrate and relax your eyes.

Give your eyes a rest: When it comes to screen time, it’s best to keep your device at least an arm’s length away. Also be sure to utilize the 20-20-20 rule. Look away from the screen every 20 minutes and stare at something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This exercise gives your eyes the chance to rest from straining for long periods of time.

Always protect your eyes: Protective eyewear is essential – especially when outdoors. According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), wearing sunglasses that block at least 99 percent of UVA and UVB radiation can help protect your vision. If you’re playing a sport, safety glasses, helmets or goggles are some of the many options available that can help shield your eyes from potential dangers.

Keep dirt and germs away: If you wear glasses or contact lenses, always be sure to use the proper saline solution for cleaning. Make-up can also cause irritation to the eyes and become a breeding ground for unwanted bacteria. Never share eye make-up and be sure to replace your cosmetics regularly. Most brands offer a suggested time frame for how frequently your products should be replaced. Usually this information is listed on the back of the item.

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam: The most important thing you can do to save your vision is to have a comprehensive eye exam. The AOA recommends adults have an eye exam at least once every two years. For those over the age of 60, an eye exam is recommended annually due to the increased risk of cataracts, glaucoma and other conditions that can occur as the eye naturally ages. If you have a family history of eye disease or vision issues, it’s recommended that you visit your optometrist sooner.

The Eye Institute (TEI) offers a variety of services to help patients maintain their visual health including comprehensive eye exams, glasses and contact lens fittings, protective eyewear solutions, and vision therapy. To schedule an appointment, call 215.276.6111.