Eye care tips: Strategies to protect children's eyesight and reduce spectacle dependency

Routine eye examinations are essential for early detection and management of vision problems in children. (Image: Canva)

In today's digital age, the prevalence of spectacles among children has become a growing concern for parents and doctors alike. While it may not be entirely possible to prevent the need for spectacles if they are genetically predisposed, there are several strategies that can help minimise the worsening of vision problems.

One of the primary recommendations by Dr Nikhil Seth, head of the department of ophthalmology at Marengo Asia hospitals Faridabad is to manage the screen exposure of young children. In the critical age group of less than two years, it is essential to minimise exposure to television, mobile phones, and tablets. The developing eyes of infants and toddlers are particularly vulnerable to the strain caused by prolonged screen time. By avoiding these devices, parents can significantly reduce the risk of early-onset vision problems.

For children over the age of two, Dr Seth suggests limiting TV exposure to no more than one hour per day. Other IT media gadgets, such as mobile phones and tablets, should also be used sparingly. The bright screens and close-up focus required for these devices can contribute to the progression of myopia (near-sightedness) and other vision issues.

Engaging in outdoor activities is crucial for the healthy development of a child’s eyes. Dr Seth emphasises the importance of at least 120 minutes of outdoor activity in proper daylight each day. Natural light and the varied visual stimuli encountered during outdoor play help strengthen the eyes and can slow down the progression of myopia. Encouraging children to play outside not only benefits their eye health but also contributes to their overall physical and mental well-being.

A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients plays a vital role in maintaining eye health. Dr Seth highlights the importance of a diet that includes adequate amounts of protein and vitamin A. Foods such as properly cooked green vegetables, yellow fruits, and milk products are excellent sources of these nutrients. Vitamin A, in particular, is crucial for maintaining good vision and preventing eye diseases. Parents should ensure that their children consume a variety of these foods to support their visual development.

Good study habits and proper posture are important factors in preventing eye strain and maintaining healthy vision. Dr Seth advises that students should study in well-lit environments and maintain an appropriate distance from their reading or writing material. This helps reduce the strain on their eyes and prevents the development of vision problems. Additionally, taking regular breaks during study sessions can help relax the eyes and prevent fatigue.

Regular eye check-ups

Routine eye examinations are essential for early detection and management of vision problems in children. Dr Seth recommends that children who do not wear glasses should have their eyes checked annually, while those who do wear glasses should undergo check-ups every six months. Early detection of any changes in vision allows for timely intervention and appropriate adjustments to prescriptions, helping to control the progression of spectacle use.

Children with a family history of spectacle use should be particularly vigilant about their eye health. Dr Seth advises that such children should undergo an eye examination at the preschool age, followed by annual evaluations until they reach 18 years of age. Monitoring their vision closely ensures that any issues are identified and managed early, reducing the risk of severe progression.

Finally, Dr Seth stresses the importance of minimising the time children spend playing mobile and tablet games. The close-up focus and prolonged use of these devices can significantly contribute to the progression of myopia and other vision problems. Encouraging alternative forms of entertainment, such as physical games and outdoor activities, can help protect children’s eyes from excessive strain.

While it may not be entirely possible to prevent the need for spectacles in children, following these guidelines can significantly reduce the progression of vision problems.