As we usher in 2024, it’s not just a time for reflection but also a fresh start on new goals, particularly regarding health. While we often hear about resolutions aimed at weight loss or fitness, we must not overlook our eyes—the windows through which we experience the world.
Here are 24 New Year’s resolution ideas to keep your vision clear and your eyes healthy all year—and beyond.
Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam: Make an appointment with your optometrist or ophthalmologist for a full eye check-up to catch any issues early.
Update Your Prescription: If you still wear glasses or contacts, ensure your prescription is current to avoid eye strain or injury.
Embrace the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to reduce eye strain from screen time.
Invest in Blue Light Blocking: Protect your eyes from the potentially harmful effects of blue light emitted by digital devices. You can do this through blue light-blocking glasses or light settings on your electronic devices.
Adjust Screen Brightness: Keep your digital screens at a brightness level that matches your surrounding workspace.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: Consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamins C and E to protect against age-related vision problems.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dry eyes. Aim for 8 or more glasses per day.
Quit Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of cataracts, optic nerve damage and macular degeneration.
Wear Sunglasses: Choose sunglasses with 100 percent UVA and UVB protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays.
Use Safety Eyewear: When engaging in work or activities that could risk eye injury, wear protective goggles or shields.
Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands regularly to prevent the spread of bacteria that can cause eye infections.
Learn Your Family’s Eye Health History: Some eye conditions are hereditary, so knowing your family’s eye health can help you take precautions.
Manage Chronic Conditions: Diseases like diabetes or hypertension can affect your eyes, so keep them under control.
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity can help prevent conditions like type 2 diabetes, which can lead to eye problems.
Use Ample Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting in your workspace to avoid squinting.
Practice Eye Safety at Work: Follow all workplace eye safety guidelines, especially if you work with hazardous materials.
Reduce Eye Infections: Replace your eye makeup regularly and never share products with others.
Take Breaks During Long Tasks: Whether you’re reading, driving or using a computer, take regular breaks to rest your eyes.
Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest eye health research and advancements.
Get Enough Sleep: Adequate sleep is vital for eye health and can prevent eye fatigue.
Control Allergies: Manage allergies with appropriate medications to avoid itchy and watery eyes.
Adjust Computer Display Settings: Customize your computer display settings to reduce eye strain, including font size and contrast.
Practice Relaxation Techniques: Stress can impact your vision, so engage in activities like yoga or meditation to maintain overall well-being.
Limit Contact Lens Wear: Give your eyes a break by limiting the time you wear contact lenses, and switch to glasses when possible. Better yet, get out of contact lenses entirely through LASIK or a modern LASIK alternative to correct your vision.
These 24 habits can help you maintain eye health and potentially improve your overall quality of life. Remember, your eyes are an integral part of your health, so give them the care and attention they deserve. Here’s to a year of clear vision and healthy eyes in 2024!
Missouri Eye Institute has helped thousands of patients attain freedom from glasses and contact lenses. Contact us at (800) 383-3831 to schedule a thorough eye exam or visit MissouriEye.com to learn more about our services.
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