Our eyesight is something many of us take for granted. The National Eye Institute reminds us that if our eyes feel healthy, it’s easy to assume they are healthy. But many eye diseases don’t have any warning signs — resulting in many people having eye problems and not knowing it. Healthy Vision Month is the perfect opportunity to learn about how to set up for a lifetime of seeing well. We can also spread awareness about the impact of visual impairment and how to help those with vision loss to live their best lives.
This is Public Health is brought to you in partnership with the Tuscarawas County Health Department.
The National Eye Institute (NEI) can help us to navigate all of the important elements of vision health. We can take proactive steps to prevent eye damage and maintain healthy eyesight such as:
- Take Care of Your Overall Health: Eat healthy foods, be physically active, and quit smoking.
- Protect Your Eyes:Wear sunglasses, avoid eye infections, give your eyes a rest from too much screen time, and use protective eyewear.
- Find Out if You’re at Risk for Eye Disease: age, family history, medical conditions, and race can all impact risk.
- Get a comprehensive dilated eye exam: A dilated eye exam is the only way to check for many eye diseases early on, when they’re easier to treat.
You can check out THIS LINK for 8 Things You Can Do Right Now to Protect Your Vision!
Reframe Your Future
This year, the theme for Healthy Vision Month is, “Reframe Your Future.” The focus is to shine a light on vision loss and mental health — and sharing steps people with a visual impairment can take to thrive in their daily lives.
The NEI writes that vision loss can create challenges in performing everyday tasks. The stigma around visual impairment can be isolating — causing feelings of fear, anxiety, or grief. That’s why Healthy Vision Month 2024 is focused on helping people with a visual impairment know how to access vision rehabilitation services, mental health support, and social connection.
Readers can get involved in Healthy Vision Month 2024 and reframe your future by:
- Learning about Visual Impairment
- Exploring Vision Rehabilitation
- Building and Strengthening Relationships
- Spreading the Word on Social Media
Get in on the Fun!
To celebrate Healthy Vision Month, check out how our eyes work by click on the image below:
You can also check your knowledge with THIS QUIZ from the National Eye Institute!
Schedule YOUR Appointment Today.
The National Eye Institute has compiled a list of ways to Get Free or Low Cost Eye Care. The best way to protect your vision is to see your eye care professional regularly!
