Eye strain is becoming a significant health concern for American workers. The Vision Council states that about 90 percent of adults spend more than two hours daily using computers and digital devices, and 60 percent do so for five or more hours. And these individuals are complaining of a range of vision and physical problems. As a result, employees have an increased interest in vision benefits.
Here are four important facts.
1. Physical discomfort – Eye strain develops through prolonged exposure to digital screens causing:
- Dry, irritated eyes
- Blurred vision
- Eye fatigue
- Neck and back pain
- Headaches
Seventy-seven percent to eighty percent of those suffering from eye strain use two or more digital devices at the same time.
2. Prevention – You can avoid eye strain by:
- Positioning digital screens at least 30 inches from your eyes.
- Resting eyes every 10 to 20 minutes.
- Blinking frequently while using digital devices to keep eyes moist.
3. Vision coverage – A 2016 survey by Wakefield Research discovered that vision and dental plans now are tied as the second-most popular voluntary benefits. In fact, eight in 10 employees enrolled in their employers’ vision plans this year. Other findings include:
- About 77 percent of people enrolled in vision plans use the coverage to pay for all, or part of, their eye exams.
- Millennials (ages 18 to 34) were most likely to use their vision coverage, compared to 18 percent of GenXers (ages 34 to 54) and 17 percent of Baby Boomers (ages 54 to 70).
4. Regular vision exams – During an annual eye exam, your eye doctor can detect subtle changes in optical muscles and vision as compared to the previous year. Some changes can be attributed to the onset of medical issues, such as diabetes. When detected and addressed at an early stage, though, costly tests, procedures or surgery may be avoided.
Children can suffer from vision problems that appear during their physical development, and through extensive use of digital devices. Learn how good near vision and frequent vision breaks help kids function in their everyday lives.
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