The Times Australia
Health

.
The Times Real Estate

.

Moving beyond Covid-19 and why eye health matters for both young & old

  • Written by NewsServices.com

Eye Health for both young and old has taken a back-seat through the pandemic and has had a big impact on our lives. Ongoing lockdowns have made it challenging for many of us to book in regular eye checks and affected our ability to maintain eye health.

But… with lockdowns winding down, workforces re-opening and kids going back to school and resuming face-to-face learning, the impact that COVID-19 has had on eye health has become ever more relevant.

Lockdowns saw kids across Australia valiantly learning from home and many parents can relate to kids using their laptops or tablets more frequently than what they’d like.

Whilst a necessary reality, this change has increased kids’ exposure to screen-time and could very well have impacted eye-development.

The process of getting eyes checked can be long and scary for some, as our eyes guide us through our day to day lives, but initiatives like World Sight Day have an important message about stepping away from screens and giving our eyes a break.

Optometrist Emmy Cui feels the impact of constant screen time has had “a huge effect, whether adults or kids.”

“It’s been all about the three screens: the big screen, the work screen and the little screen. More screen time has led to a sharp increase in myopia, or short-sightedness, and it’s expected to impact half the world’s population by 2050,” Emmy says.

Whilst maintaining eye health for young Aussies through regular trips to the optometrist is important, the same goes for adults.

Emmy has shared six key tips for maintaining healthy eyes:

  1. Go see your optometrist, especially if you haven’t had your eyes checked in a while

  2. Make healthy food choices – diet has a big impact on eye health

  3. Regular exercise

  4. Quit smoking

  5. Wear a hat and sunglasses when out in the sun and if you’re in certain occupations protect your eyes with goggles

  6. And importantly, take regular breaks from screens and devices

The reality is that we are in a digital age where our eyes are subjected to screens for much of the day, whether it’s for work with our laptops or playing a game on our phones.

The 20-20-20 rule is one that Emmy recommends where, “Every 20 minutes spent using a screen; you should try to look away at something that is 20 feet away from you for a total of 20 seconds.” This will give eyes a much-needed break and allow your eyes to recover.

Conditions such as myopia in children and presbyopia in adults approaching the age of 40, are eye health issues that can be diagnosed and treated through regular eye checks. Our eyes are used for everything, they’re an important sense that we often forget to check until a health issue becomes apparent and diagnosed as too late to fix.

World Sight Day is about encouraging Australians to love their eyes and is raising awareness of the importance of being aware of our eye health and having regular check-ups.

Sight for Kids is another important initiative that focuses on the importance of children’s eyesight and helps children globally who are struggling with poor eye health. Whether in Australia or abroad, now is the time to learn about how you can help.

Indeed, now is the time to get regular check-ups, book in with your local optometrist and start the journey to maintaining and ensuring that your eyes are looked after and as healthy as they can be!

The Times Features

Why You Need an Expert Electrician for Your Business’s Electrical Upgrades and Repairs

When it comes to maintaining and upgrading your business’s electrical systems, it’s essential to call in a professional. Electrical work in any commercial setting requires the ex...

Why Is It Crucial to Have a Building Inspection Done Before Buying a New Home?

Purchasing a new property is a big financial decision that can impact your future for years. Whether you are a first-time buyer or an investor, good or bad, it is essential to en...

Online Application for Sick Leave Certificate: Understanding When and How to Secure One

A sick leave certificate is an official document issued by a healthcare professional to verify an individual's inability to attend work due to illness. It typically includes the ...

A No-Fuss Guide to an Effective Beauty Routine

Taking care of the skin and appearance need not be complicated; it need not even consume your hours of time. Smart and simple approaches can give one that glow and fresh look witho...

Safe & Effective Tattoo Removal in Auckland – What You Need to Know

If you're looking for tattoo removal in Auckland, modern laser technology offers the safest and most effective way to fade or completely remove unwanted ink. Whether it's an outd...

Fleece-Lined Tights vs. Regular Tights: What’s the Difference?

When temperatures drop, choosing the right pair of tights can make a significant difference in comfort, warmth, and durability. Whether you wear tights for fashion, work, or outdoo...

Times Magazine

The Ultimate Guide to Apple Watch Faces & Trending Wallpapers

In today’s digital world, personalization is everything. Your smartwatch isn’t just a timepiece—it’s an extension of your style. Thanks to innovative third-party developers, customizing your Apple Watch has reached new heights with stunning designs...

The Power of Digital Signage in Modern Marketing

In a fast-paced digital world, businesses must find innovative ways to capture consumer attention. Digital signage has emerged as a powerful solution, offering dynamic and engaging content that attracts and retains customers. From retail stores to ...

Why Cloud Computing Is the Future of IT Infrastructure for Enterprises

Globally, cloud computing is changing the way business organizations manage their IT infrastructure. It offers cheap, flexible and scalable solutions. Cloud technologies are applied in organizations to facilitate procedures and optimize operation...

First Nations Writers Festival

The First Nations Writers Festival (FNWF) is back for its highly anticipated 2025 edition, continuing its mission to celebrate the voices, cultures and traditions of First Nations communities through literature, art and storytelling. Set to take ...

Improving Website Performance with a Cloud VPS

Websites represent the new mantra of success. One slow website may make escape for visitors along with income too. Therefore it's an extra offer to businesses seeking better performance with more scalability and, thus represents an added attracti...

Why You Should Choose Digital Printing for Your Next Project

In the rapidly evolving world of print media, digital printing has emerged as a cornerstone technology that revolutionises how businesses and creative professionals produce printed materials. Offering unparalleled flexibility, speed, and quality, d...

LayBy Shopping