Healthy Eye Habits
Many vision problems occur naturally with age and with no obvious signs or symptoms. An important way to help prevent eye health issues from progressing is by scheduling an annual exam with your eye doctor. 80 percent of all visual impairment is treatable. Early detection of eye and vision problems can help prevent vision loss.
In addition to regular eye exams, the following habits can help maintain healthy eyes and vision:
- Always clean, disinfect, store, and replace contact lenses as recommended
- Thoroughly wash and dry hands before inserting or removing contact lenses
- Wear sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UVA/UVB rays
- Avoid smoking
- Maintain a healthy weight to avoid systemic conditions—such as diabetes—that may lead to impaired vision
- Monitor chronic health conditions (e.g., diabetes and high blood pressure)
- Reduce computer-induced eyestrain by practicing the 20-20-20 rule: look 20 feet away for 20 seconds, every 20 minutes
- Eat a healthy diet filled with dark leafy greens, like kale, spinach, and collards, and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, including salmon, tuna, and anchovies to help support overall eye health
- Include dietary supplements that boost your intake of vitamins and minerals that support eye health
