The Importance of Maintaining Good Vision & Eye Health

The Importance of Maintaining Good Vision & Eye Health

Maintaining proper vision and eye health is so important in our day to day activities. Without healthy vision, activities like reading and driving would be much more difficult. Additionally, maintaining healthy vision is vital for completing important tasks at home, at school and in the workplace safely.

Here are some tips on how to maintain good eye health in our daily lives:

·       Wear protective eyewear: If you work in an atmosphere where hazardous or airborne material is possible, wearing safety glasses is very important in protecting you from obtaining materials like dust or dirt in your eyes that could potentially impair your vision. If working in an outdoor environment, UV protection sunglasses are also important. Taking routine eye safety classes can also help in preventing an accident from happening in the workplace that could potentially be caused by impaired vision.

·       Eating healthy food that promotes good eye health: Green, leafy vegetables like spinach, collards and kale contain nutrients and vitamins that are essential in maintaining proper eye health. Salmon, tuna and other oily fish also help promote good eye health. Other foods that provide nutritional benefits for good eye health include citrus fruits, eggs, nuts and beans.

·       Eye exams: Getting a routine eye exam annually is important in determining the status of your eye health. Additionally, it may assist in determining other potential health issues. Many people first learn of serious health conditions such as cataracts, diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, glaucoma and high cholesterol through taking a routine eye exam.

·       Eye breaks: Taking breaks from staring at a computer are important so you do not strain your eyes. Mayo Clinic suggests the “20-20-20” technique where every 20 minutes you avert your eyes away from the computer and stare at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This eye exercise will help to prevent tired eyes by allowing them to refocus. Additionally, the American Optometric Association suggests taking a 15-minute break after 2 hours of continuous computer use. They also suggest blinking frequently when using a computer to prevent dry eyes.