Kids Eye Health: How can I reduce the likelihood of my kids needing glasses?

Unfortunately, many eye conditions are hereditary, for example, if any one or both

of your parents need glasses, you are more likely to require glasses yourself.

Long sighted-ness and astigmatism typically attribute to the geometry of your

eyes from birth so little can be done without the help of surgery or specialised

corrective contact lenses (please consult your eye health professional on the latter). 

However, taking regular breaks every half hour from close distance or computer work

could help reduce eyestrain and migraines often associated with these conditions.

As for short sighted-ness, too much close distance reading or computer work is

likely to further affect your vision.  Take a short break every half hour or so and

use this opportunity to relax your eye muscles by looking at objects in the distance

(at least 6 metres away) may be beneficial.  Also, you should have your eyes

checked by your eye health professional every 12 months if there is a family history

of eye conditions (e.g. short/long sighted-ness).  You may also wish to consult your

eye health professional to see if you are suitable for specialised corrective contact

lenses.  

[Please note the above has been provided as general information only and must

not be used or relied upon as a substitute for medical advice from your doctor,

eyecare professional or other healthcare provider.  Our full Terms of Use can be

found here].