Independent opticians in Milton Keynes have urged parents to focus on their children’s eyesight and book an eye exam this half term holiday to safeguard their sight for the future.
Experts recommend that children should have regular eye exams every one or two years, or as recommended by their optometrist, from the age of three or four.
Eye exams can detect a number of eye problems, including childhood cataracts, lazy eye, short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia) and colour blindness, and the sooner any eye problem is found, the sooner children can receive treatment.
With most children off school for a week in February, the team at independent practice Davis Optometrists in High Street, Olney has said it is the perfect opportunity for families to book an eye exam, even if their children are not experiencing any eye or sight issues.
“We can’t stress enough how vital it is that children have regular eye exams," said Optometrist Vaneesha Patel, "Many children will not be aware they have problems with their vision, so it may go undetected, meaning that valuable time to treat and support them is lost. In addition, vision issues can impact children’s development and learning.
“Our warm, welcoming approach helps to reassure children who may be feeling anxious about their first eye exam, so they’re happy to return.”
A recent report by the Association of British Dispensing Opticians, The College of Optometrists and the Optical Suppliers’ Association found that nearly one in 10 parents or carers only take their child for their first visit to the optician if and when an eye health or vision issue arises.
In addition to booking an eye exam during half term, families have also been encouraged to spend time outdoors where possible during the holiday, as studies have shown that children who spend sufficient time outdoors are less likely to be or become short-sighted.
“There are several theories about why spending time outdoors can help to protect against myopia, or why screentime may make it worse," said Michelle Wheeler, practice manager for DW Roberts Opticians in High Street, Stony Stratford, "One is that sunlight boosts dopamine levels in the eye, which controls the growth rate of the eye. Another theory is that shorter viewing distances may stimulate abnormal growth of the eye.
“Families can help support the health of their children’s eyesight by encouraging regular screen breaks and heading outdoors this half term.”
To book an eye exam at Davis Optometrists in Olney call 01234 712500, or for DW Roberts in Stony Stratford contact 01908 562355.
