Digital Devices and Eye Strain

Human beings are relying more and more on digital devices. Not only do we use them at work, we use them for entertainment, as alarm clocks, as recipe guides making dinner, and for social interaction of all kinds. The downside is that these heavy digital habits are taking quite a toll on our eyes.

According to the Vision Council, there are some astounding statistics at just how much time we are spending looking at our digital devices:

• 25% of Children (under 14) spend 3 hours or more per day
• 33% of working-age adults spend 9 hours or more per day
• 25% of seniors spend 9 hours or more per day

We stare, stare, stare at blue-tinted light coming from these devices. The result: Eye strain, neck/shoulder strain, headaches, blurred vision, and dry eyes.

But if we can’t avoid using our devices, is there anything we can do to alleviate these symptoms? Absolutely.

• Use the 20/20/20 rule: Every 20 MINUTES, take a 20 SECOND BREAK, and look at something 20 FEET AWAY or more.
• Boost the font sizes you’re reading on your screen.
• Adjust the brightness of your screen – it should match your surrounding environment as closely as possible.

If you are experiencing chronic computer eyestrain issues, be sure to visit your Optometrist. You may benefit from prescription lenses that block or reduce blue light coming from computer devices. These kinds of lenses are also available through the Eyesafe program, and can be installed into safety eyewear frames, or regular eyewear frames.

After all, if you’re spending countless hours in front of a screen, it could make your daily grind a lot less grinding.