Did you know that most vision problems are preventable?

Every May, the National Eye Institute (NEI) celebrates Healthy Vision Month, an awareness campaign designed to encourage healthy, sight-saving habits. 

This year, NEI is focusing on young adults between the ages 25 to 35. While people in this age group typically have healthy vision, it’s important to promote good habits early on to prevent future vision loss.

The NEI recommends the following tips to keep your eyes healthy:

• Wear sunglasses

Sunglasses are more than just a fashion accessory – they also protect your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV damage can increase your risk of developing cataracts, so keep those shades handy!

• Eat well

Maintaining a healthy diet is essential for eye health. The NEI recommends consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly dark leafy greens like spinach and kale. They also recommend eating fish with high levels of omega-3 fatty acids including salmon, tuna, and halibut.

• Exercise

According to the NEI, “anything that gets your heart beating faster” is good for your eye health. High blood pressure and diabetes are linked to eye disease, so it’s a good idea to keep yourself in shape.

• Wear eye protection

People with sports-related eye injuries arrive in the ER every 13 minutes! If you’re participating in sports, proper eye protection is a must. Work-related eye injuries are also remarkably common, affecting 2000 Americans each year.

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule

If you spend a lot of time looking at screens, make sure to regularly rest your eyes. Physicians recommend focusing on a point about 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 twenty minutes. Following this rule can prevent eye strain.

For a full list of tips, check out the NEI official website.

Vision loss doesn’t need to be a natural part of getting older. By taking care of your eyes today, you can safeguard your vision tomorrow.

South East Eye encourages our readers to participate in NEI’s My Vision of the Future social media campaign. During Healthy Vision Month, use #MyVisionMyFuture to discuss ways in which you intend to protect your vision this year! For questions about your eye health, contact us today to set up an appointment.