Our eyes work hard from morning until night. As the years go by, it is normal for vision to change a little, and many people notice they need more light to read or take longer to adjust when moving from bright rooms to dim ones. The good news is that a few simple daily habits can help you keep your eyes comfortable and make the most of the vision you have.
Give Your Eyes the Light They Need
Good lighting makes everyday tasks easier on your eyes. Place a lamp behind or beside you when reading, rather than in front, so the light falls on the page instead of into your eyes. In the kitchen and on stairs, brighter bulbs can reduce squinting and help prevent trips and slips.
It also helps to cut glare. Tilt screens away from windows, use curtains or blinds on very sunny days, and wipe your glasses often so smudges do not scatter the light.
Eat and Move With Your Eyes in Mind
What is good for your body is usually good for your eyes too. A varied diet with plenty of colorful foods supports overall health, and staying active helps circulation throughout the body, including the tiny blood vessels in the eyes.
- Leafy greens such as spinach and kale are easy to add to meals.
- Orange and yellow produce like carrots, peppers and squash bring color and variety.
- Fish, nuts and seeds can be part of a balanced weekly menu.
- Water throughout the day helps you feel fresh and may ease a dry, tired feeling.
Protect Your Eyes Outdoors and at Home
Sunlight is one of the most common everyday stresses on the eyes. Wearing sunglasses that block UV light and a hat with a brim on bright days is a simple way to add protection. Safety glasses are worth keeping nearby for gardening, home repairs or any task that sends dust or small bits flying.
If you smoke, cutting back or quitting is one of the best things you can do for your long term health, and your eyes benefit as well.
Keep Up With Regular Eye Exams
Many eye changes happen slowly and without pain, so you may not notice them on your own. A routine exam with an optometrist or ophthalmologist can check how well you see and look at the overall health of your eyes. Your eye care professional can suggest how often you should come in based on your age, family history and general health.
Do not wait for your next visit if you notice sudden changes, such as flashes of light, a curtain over your vision, new floaters or eye pain. These are signs to contact a professional promptly.
Looking after your eyes does not require big changes. Brighter lighting, colorful meals, sun protection and regular checkups all add up. Pick one habit to start this week, and give your eyes a little extra care every day.
