July 8, 2015
Andrew Karp, group editor, Lenses & Technology, VM and 20/20,and Mark Mattison-Shupnick, ABOM, BS,editor of 20/20 Opticians Handbook, discuss the OD’s prime opportunity to prescribe new optical solutions and techniquesto relieve patients from digital eye strain.
“It is notable how much time people of all ages spend looking at digital devices,” says Karp, “yet so feware wearing computer glasses or any kind of eyewear that can help to alleviate digital eye strain.” Among optical solutions, he notes, are computer eyeglasses or eyeglasses set for tasks at various focal lengths. AR treatments also can relive eye strain from digital devices.
“People are asking me, ‘How come my eye doctor isn’ttelling me about these things?'” says Mattison-Shupnick. “‘Because I do have tired eyes at night.'” He underscores that there are many products on the market that address digital eye strain. “There are lots of opportunities out there,” he says, “and that means telling the story.”
In addition to prescribing optical solutions, ODs can instruct patients in ways to lessen or alleviate digital eye strain. Practical steps include reducing the intensity of light emitted by digital devices, especially late at night. Another is to develop a habit of holding a digital device further away from the face. Finally, there is the 20/20/20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at an object at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. That lessens eye strain.
SPECIAL REPORT
Vision Council: Hindsight is 20/20/20: Protect Your Eyes from Digital Devices
Andrew Karp, is group editor, Lenses & Technology, for 20/20 and Vision Monday. To contact him: akarp@jobson.com
Mark Mattison-Shupnick, ABOM, BS, is editor of 20/20 Opticians Handbook. To reach him: mmattisonshupnick@jobson.com
