Screens Are Part of Life—But So Is Eye Strain
Whether you’re working from home, helping your child with schoolwork, or video chatting with grandparents, screen time is part of daily life for families in Prospect and across Connecticut. But while we benefit from convenience and connection, our eyes often bear the cost.At Vision Associates of Prospect, we help patients of all ages manage the effects of digital eye strain and protect their vision in a tech-heavy world. Here’s what to watch for—and how to build better screen habits at home.
For Kids: Developing Eyes Under Digital Pressure
Children’s eyes are still growing, making them more sensitive to extended close-up work like gaming or reading on a tablet. Too much screen time may contribute to:
- Early-onset myopia (nearsightedness)
- Frequent blinking or eye rubbing
- Complaints of blurry or tired eyes
- Headaches or trouble focusing
- Holding screens too close to the face
What to do:
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule (look 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes)
- Limit recreational screen time
- Encourage daily outdoor play
- Schedule regular pediatric eye exams—even if your child isn’t complaining
For Adults: Strain from Work and Multitasking
Parents and professionals are navigating a world of emails, spreadsheets, and video calls—often while managing a household. Digital eye strain is common and may show up as:
- Dry, burning eyes
- Headaches or neck tension
- Blurred vision after long periods on the computer
- Trouble shifting focus between distances
- Sleep disruption from evening screen use
Smart strategies:
- Use blue light–filtering glasses
- Adjust lighting to minimize glare
- Take screen breaks regularly
- Customize your eyewear for work and reading distances
For Seniors: Aging Eyes Meet a Digital World
Grandparents are texting, browsing, and video calling more than ever. But aging eyes may struggle with small fonts, glare, and screen brightness. Screen strain in seniors can look like:
- Eye fatigue and dryness
- Difficulty focusing on small print
- Heightened light sensitivity
- Trouble reading in low light
- Visual fatigue after a short time on devices
Helpful tips:
- Increase screen text size and contrast
- Use warm lighting and anti-glare screens
- Wear up-to-date progressive lenses or task-specific readers
- Schedule annual exams to monitor for age-related eye changes
The Best Way to Protect Your Family’s Vision? See Us Annually
Digital strain often builds slowly—and symptoms can be easy to overlook, especially in kids. Annual eye exams help detect vision changes early, prevent long-term strain, and ensure everyone in your household is equipped with the right lenses and tools for their digital lifestyle.
At Vision Associates of Prospect, we provide:
- Child-friendly exams and eyewear
- Digital lens options for students and professionals
- Blue light–filtering and anti-fatigue lenses
- Senior vision care and specialty options
- A friendly, local team committed to your family’s long-term eye health
Schedule your family’s next eye exams today at Vision Associates of Prospect. Your eyes may be working hard—but they don’t have to suffer for it.