The Spectator

Our eyes play an important role in almost everything we do, yet it can be easy to take our vision for granted.

From leading and working to driving, using screens and enjoying time outdoors, we rely on our eyes throughout the day. National Eye Health Week, taking place from 21st to 27th September 2026, is a reminder to give your eye health the same attention as the rest of your health and wellbeing.

Looking after your eyes doesn’t have to be complicated. There are several simple steps you can take to protect your vision, support your eye health and identify potential problems early.
 

1. Attend Regular Eye Exams

One of the most important things you can do for your eye health is attend regular eye exams.

A comprehensive eye examination is about much more than finding out whether you need specs. Your optometrist assesses your vision and examines the health of your eyes, looking for signs of eye conditions that may not cause noticeable symptoms in their early stages.

Conditions such as glaucoma can develop without obvious changes to your vision which is why regular exams are important even if you feel that you can see perfectly well. An eye exam can also sometimes reveal signs associated with wider health conditions, including diabetes and high blood pressure.

For most people, an eye examination is recommended every two years, although some people may need to be seen more frequently depending on their age, health, family history, and individual circumstances. Your optometrist will advise you on how often you should attend.
 

2. Protect Your Eyes From UV Rays

UV exposure is not just something to think about during summer. Your eyes can be exposed to ultraviolet radiation throughout the year, particularly when spending time outdoors.

Long term exposure to UV can contribute to certain eye conditions, so protecting your eyes is an important part of maintaining good eye health.

Even during cloudy days, wearing sunspecs outdoors is advised as UV rays can still peek through the clouds and damage your eyes without you even realising it.

Remember that dark lenses don't necessarily mean that a pair of sunspecs provides adequate UV protection. Always check that your sunspecs offer 100% UVA and UVB protection and look for the appropriate certification or safety marking.

3. Give Your Eyes a Break From Screens

Screens are now a normal part of everyday life, whether you are working at a computer, studying, using your phone or relaxing in front of the TV.

Extended periods of screen use can be associated with symptoms such as tired eyes, dryness, blurred vision, and headaches. This doesn’t mean that screens are necessarily damaging your eyes, but taking regular breaks can help reduce discomfort.

Try following the 20-20-20 approach: Every 20 minutes, look at something around 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

It is also worth considering your screen position, lighting and posture. If you regularly experience eye discomfort or headaches when using digital devices, speak to your optometrist.

4. Look After Your Overall Health and Wellbeing

Your overall health and your eye health are closely connected.

Eating a balanced diet, staying physically active and not smoking can all contribute to healthier eyes. A varied diet containing plenty of fruit and vegetables, along with foods such as oily fish and wholegrains, can provide nutrients that support general and eye health.

Managing existing health conditions and attending recommended health checks is also important. Conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure can affect the eyes, which is another reason why regular eye examinations form an important part of looking after your health.

5. Pay Attention to Changes in Your Vision

Changes in your vision should not always be put down to getting older, tiredness or spending too much time looking at a screen.

If you notice blurred or distorted vision, new floaters or flashes, changes to your peripheral vision, difficulty seeing in low light or any other unusual changes, speak to an optometrist.

Some changes require urgent assessment. If you experience a sudden loss of vision, a sudden increase in floaters or flashes, or a dark curtain or shadow across your vision, seek urgent medical attention.

Make Eye Health a Part of Your Routine

National Eye Health Week is a useful reminder that looking after your eyes should be part of your regular healthcare routine, rather than something you think about only when you notice a problem.

Regular eye exams, protecting your eyes from UV, taking breaks from screens, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and paying attention to changes in your vision can all play a part in supporting your eye health.

At The Eye Place, our team is here to help you look after your vision and your eye health at every stage of life.

If you’re due an eye exam or have noticed changes in your vision, book an eye exam online or contact your local practice.