Vision deterioration is normal and happens when we get older. Some people experience poorer vision from a young age, whereas others experience perfect vision until their more mature years, when they suddenly realise they need to squint to read a book.
Often, vision deterioration creeps up on us. You might notice:
- You are leaning forward in your chair more to read words on a computer screen
- You can’t read a licence plate number on the car in front of you
- You’re taking longer to recognise people in the street
- You’re finding it harder to walk at night as the street lights seem blurred or you’re not making out shapes as easily
- Reading is becoming more difficult
- You’re getting more headaches
Corrective eyewear such as glasses and contact lenses can help stabilize your vision, so your first step is to see your optician. Your optician will perform an eye examination and let you know if you have any prescription needs.
Once your vision begins to deteriorate, it can be a downwards slope. But there are things you can do at home to help yourself. By following these steps, you can help keep your eyesight steady and minimise the risk of vision loss.
Steps to Helping With Vision Loss
Step 1: Take Breaks From Your Computer
Constantly straining your eyes in front of a computer screen can cause eye problems. You might find you get some of the following symptoms:
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Neck strain
- Eye itching
- Redness
- Dry eyes
- Vision problems
Doing this excessively can lead to poorer eyesight and a need for stronger glasses or contact lenses.
You should take regular breaks from your computer screen. The Health and Safety Executive recommends taking a 5 minute break every hour. Short, regular breaks are preferable over infrequent longer breaks.
Step 2: Get An Ergonomic Chair
An ergonomic chair is a chair with a difference. It has been designed with your body and wellbeing in mind. Our range of ergonomic office chairs have adjustable headrests, backrests and posture-fixing support, to ensure that you are sat comfortably. When you strain your neck and head to see a computer, you directly impact your vision. Giving yourself a chance to be comfortable, safe and supported will help you keep stable vision without straining your face and neck. To view our full range of ergonomic chairs, click here.
Step 3: Eat Right For Your Sight
Fruit and vegetables contain the right balance of vitamins and minerals to help you maintain healthy eyesight. If you want to ensure you’re getting enough, you can take a high quality vitamin supplement alongside your regular meals. Having a high sugar diet can cause you to develop type 2 diabetes. People who develop type 2 diabetes can experience poor vision and even blindness, but 90% of diabetic blindness can be prevented with the right diet. If you drink a bit too much alcohol, you risk your eyes drying out regularly. The dehydration of the eye can cause blurred vision and even permanent deterioration. Similarly, chronic dehydration can have the same effect. Therefore, ensure you get all of your nutrients and hydration for optimal eye health.
Step 4: If You Have Glasses, Wear Them
When you wear glasses, you are giving your eyes a break from straining to see. When you fail to wear glasses, your eyes work extra hard and this can lead to vision deterioration. If you have been prescribed glasses, wear them as directed by your optician. So, if they have told you to always wear glasses when reading, make sure you do this. If they have told you to wear glasses all day, you should do this. Following these instructions will help prevent any further damage to the eye.
Step 5: Adjust Your Monitor
When you’re staring at a screen, you need to ensure that you are doing so in a safe way. If your workplace monitor is too bright, this can cause your eyes to work harder and even become blurry and watery. If your screen is too dim, your eyes work harder to see the words. If the screen is too close to your face, or too far away, you are putting yourself under unnecessary pressure. Therefore, getting an adjustable monitor mount can help you find the right settings and placement. To view our range, click here.
Flexispot
Flexispot can help you pick the right ergonomic work furniture and accessories to prevent eyesight deterioration. You can choose from a range of ergonomic chairs, monitor stands, desks, gaming chairs and much, much more. Whether you’re working from home or in the office, there is no reason why your eyesight or vision should suffer. Contact us today to find out more about our products and one of our friendly staff will be glad to help. Click here for more information.