Tips to keep your eyes healthy

May is Health Vision Month, a great opportunity to take steps to protect your and your family’s eye health. There are a number of things you can do ensure your eyes are safe and healthy for years to come.

• See your eye doctor regularly. Even if you don’t have any vision issues or experience any problems, it’s still important to visit an ophthalmologist, optometrist or optician for screenings to ensure there are no underlying issues, such as cataracts, glaucoma or other potential problems.

• Wear protective gear. If you work in a hazardous environment where something could hurt your eyes, it’s important to wear protective gear to prevent injuries. This is also important if you or your kids play sports. Just as important is to wear sunglasses when outside or driving in your car to prevent glare and protect your eyes from UV and other harmful rays.

• Give your eyes a rest. Do you sit at a computer for long periods of time? If so, it’s important to take breaks to ensure your eyes have proper rest and avoid strain and other related issues.

• Take care of your overall health. Poor vision can be connected to a host of other health issues, including diabetes, heart problems, blood pressure and more. To keep your whole self healthy, including your eyes, it’s important to eat a nutritious diet and stay active.

Taking action to maintain healthy vision will benefit you now and for many years to come.

For Health Advocate Members

If you’re a Health Advocate member, call your Personal Health Advocate for help understanding what’s covered through your vision benefits, finding an eye care provider in your area, or scheduling an eye exam or screening.

Other Helpful Resources:

To learn more, please visit any of the websites below that provide additional information about protecting the health of your eyes:

• EyeSmart
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• National Eye Institute