Simple ways to protect kids ’ vision
Parents recognize there ’ s no aspect of kids ’ health that can be taken for granted . Common colds can appear overnight , and injuries on the playground can occur in the blink of an eye . Such issues may be hard to see coming , but the risk for colds , playground injuries and other health-related conditions , including childhood vision problems , can be mitigated with various preventive measures .
Vision issues that affect children can lead to a host of unwanted outcomes , including physical injuries and decreased academic performance . Though kids may ultimately need vision problems to be corrected with the help of an eye doctor , the following are some steps parents can take to protect their children ’ s vision over the long haul .
• Schedule routine eye exams . The American Academy of Ophthalmology notes that children ’ s vision can be screened by various medical professionals , including eye doctors but also pediatricians , family physicians or other properly trained health care providers . The AAO recommends children at all age levels receive eye examinations . Newborns will need eye exams so doctors can check for various indicators of eye health , while a second eye exam conducted during a well visit before the child ’ s first birthday can confirm healthy eye alignment and movement . Exam intervals can be discussed with a physician as children age , but it ’ s important that kids receive routine eye exams to confirm their vision is healthy and to identify any issues that could be compromising their vision .
• Feed children a healthy diet . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend a diet rich in fruits and vegetables , which have the vitamins and minerals necessary to maintain healthy vision .
• Monitor screen time . The CDC notes that excessive screen time can exacerbate uncorrected vision problems . Daily screen time limits can help protect kids ’ vision , and parents should ensure kids take frequent breaks when using digital devices . Frequent breaks from additional activities like reading , writing and drawing also can protect kids ’ vision .
• Squeeze in time outdoors . Access and exposure to nature pays a host of health-related dividends , including some linked to eye health . The CDC notes that going outdoors affords kids ’ eyes the opportunity to look at distant objects , which can provide a respite from the eye strain and fatigue that can develop when looking at screens or books .
• Provide protective eyewear , including sunglasses . Exposure to UV rays from the sun can harm children ’ s eyes , so kids should wear sunglasses with 100 percent UV protection when spending time outside . The CDC also urges children to wear protective eyewear when engaging in activities such as sports that can increase their risk for eye injury and vision loss .
Taking steps to protect long-term vision is a vital component of childhood preventive health care .
HEALTH TIPS
2023 Southern Iowa Medical Directory • 19