NEW YORK—May is Healthy Vision Month and it’s one of several eye health observances recognized by The American Association of Ophthalmology (AAO) each year. According to the AAO, “Approximately 37 million adults in America have age-related macular degeneration, cataract, diabetic retinopathy or glaucoma, all of which can cause visual impairment or blindness.”

ECPs can educate patients about the best ways to preserve their eye health and sight, whether it’s getting a regular eye exam or simply making healthy choices. Here are some statistics from the National Eye Institute (NEI) that ECPs can share with patients:

• More than 23 million Americans age 18 and older have never had an eye exam.
• By 2030, 11.4 million people will have diabetic retinopathy.
• By that same year, 4.2 million people will have glaucoma.
• Also, 3.7 million people will have age-related macular degeneration by 2030.
The NEI encourages the following steps people can take to protect their vision:
• Live a Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy weight and eat foods like fish and dark leafy green vegetables to lower your risk of eye disease. And don’t smoke—it’s as bad for your eyes as it is for the rest of your body.
• Know Your Family History: Genes are a factor in eye disease, including diseases that are the leading causes of blindness. Talk to your family members about their eye health history.
• Use Protective Eyewear: Safety glasses or goggles can protect your eyes at work and at play. Talk to your eyecare provider about the right protective eyewear for your sport or job.
• Wear Sunglasses: Protect your eyes by choosing sunglasses that block out 99 percent to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB radiation.

Patient education tools are available online at Seiko Vision including infographics about blue light, preventing digital eye strain and identifying digital eye strain symptoms.

To download a free patient education kit, including an 8.5 x 11 inch flier for display and three social media posts (with graphics) that practices can use, click here.