5 New Year Resolutions for your Eye Health

Jan 21, 2015 in Eye Care

5 New Year Resolutions for your Eye Health

5 New Year Resolutions for your Eye Health

The New Year is here and it’s time to follow through on all the resolutions you have made. This year, how about making some resolutions to maintain, and improve, your eye health? Here are 5 New Year Resolutions worth making in 2015.

I will practise the rule of 20-20-20

Let’s face it – we are spending most of our day staring at some screen or the other. Whether it’s your mobile phone, laptop, iPad or PS3, the blue screen is always blinking. This can cause eye strain, blurry vision, dry eyes and headaches, therefore it’s important to take frequent breaks. The 20-20-20 rule is quite simple – every 20 minutes, rest your eyes for 20 seconds by looking away from your screen and focussing on an object 20 feet away.

If that object is a tree or any green shrubbery, the better for your eyes…

I will remove my contact lenses every night

Falling asleep with your contact lenses on is a big no-no. It severely limits the flow of oxygen to your eyes. It can also cause the lens to tighten in the eye, leading to microscopic rips in the cornea. Always remove your contact lenses and clean them as per instructions from your ophthalmologist. Remember to use only the recommended cleaning solution and never, ever recycle it – it’s just an invitation to eye infections.

I will wear sunglasses every time I step outside

Yes, even when it’s dark and gloomy outside! The sun’s UV rays are always present and prolonged exposure can damage your eyes and increase your chances of getting cataracts. Choose sunglasses that block 99% to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Always try on the sunglasses and make sure they fit well.

I will eat more fruits & veggies

Studies have shown that a diet rich in Vitamins C & E, omega-3 fatty acids, lutein and zinc helps in warding off age-related eye problems, including cataracts and macular degeneration. So, add green, leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, oily fish such as salmon and tuna, and lots of nuts and beans to your diet.

I will take an eye examination this year

Have you been putting off getting your eyes tested? Let 2015 be the year you address that. Eye problems don’t develop overnight; they start gradually and, if ignored, can lead to permanent damage. Regular eye examination is the best way to assess your eyesight and check whether there are any underlying problems. The sooner vision problems are detected, the sooner you can take corrective action and reduce or stop deterioration of eyesight.

Just as getting an annual health check-up is essential for your physical well being, an annual eye test is recommended for all age groups.

Drop in at your local Leightons Opticians and Hearing Care branch. Our friendly and qualified optometrists will put you at ease and carry out a complete lifestyle evaluation. Our eye test takes about 30 minutes and is a comprehensive one, including state-of-the-art retinal photography and 3D tests. Based on the results of your eye test, we will advise you on eye care practices. Should you need glasses or contact lenses, we will assist you in choosing the ones that suit your requirements and lifestyle best.

So book an eye test online now with Leightons Opticians and Hearing Care or call us on 0800 40 20 20.