9 out of 10 Australians say that sight is their most valued sense. Here are five things you can do to keep your eyes healthy and your vision sharp.
How to keep your eyes healthy
1. Eat a healthy diet
Foods like green leafy vegetables, fish and linseeds are great sources of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. Eating a balanced diet rich in these nutrients, along with vitamins and minerals including C and E, zinc and selenium, may help prevent or slow the development of some eye conditions such as macular degeneration. It can also help reduce the risk of other chronic conditions like diabetes, which may impact vision.
2. Shield your eyes from UV light
Just like our skin, UV light can have a harmful impact on your eyes and may contribute to age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Yet 62% of Australians don’t wear sunglasses or a hat.
Choose sunglasses with proper UV protection and wear a hat when outdoors. For more advice on selecting the right lenses, speak with your optometrist.
3. Protect your eyes from hazards
When working outdoors or using machinery or tools, protecting your eyes with safety glasses is important. Even everyday activities like mowing the lawn can expose your eyes to flying debris, so it’s best to use protective eyewear.
4. Consider blue light glasses for screen time
Blue light emitted by screens can trick your body into thinking it’s still daytime, which may disrupt your sleep cycle.
We’ve all experienced tired eyes after too much screen time. Glasses with a blue light filter can help reduce eye strain and fatigue. It’s also important to take regular breaks and avoid screens at least an hour before bed.
5. Have regular eye examinations
Even if you have good vision and aren’t noticing any changes, it’s important to have regular eye checks with an optometrist. It’s recommended to have an eye examination every two years. Optometrists can detect small changes early, helping to slow down or prevent chronic conditions from developing.
Don’t forget the kids
Children often assume what they’re seeing is normal, so it can be difficult to identify vision issues. Signs to watch for include covering or closing one eye, headaches, skipping lines when reading and sitting closer than usual to screens.
Regular eye checks are recommended for children, and it’s a good idea to have their vision tested before they start school. Your doctor or optometrist can also guide you on what to look out for.
Wear prescription lenses?
Polarised and blue light lenses are claimable with selected levels of Phoenix Health extras cover when added to prescription glasses or sunglasses. See our Extras Cover options and product information sheets to learn more about optical benefits, or contact the Phoenix Health team.
If you have concerns about your vision or eye health, make an appointment with your optometrist or health care professional.
Sources: Bailey Nelson, Vision 2020, Vision Australia
