Screen Hygiene
As technology advances, we are more connected than ever and spend more time looking at screens. While you may typically hear screen time and screen hygiene advice or information aimed at children and adolescents, it is equally as important for adults, too. Smartphones are a great way for adults to stay connected to friends and family, keep up to date with news and social media, and have easy access to entertainment. Many adults spend time daily looking at their smartphones, TVs, e-readers, tablets, and computers, among other devices. It is important to note that as we age, our eyes age too and they become more susceptible to certain conditions (like presbyopia, age-related macular degeneration, and dry eyes). Maintaining proper screen hygiene is important to help prevent exacerbating these conditions, and to try to avoid compromising eye health.
Screen Hygiene Tips:
- 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to give your eyes a break
- Reduce the brightness of your screen to match your room lighting
- Adjust font size and boldness to make it comfortable for you. Adjust background contrast as well, if this is an option
- Try to avoid screen time for ~1 hour prior to bedtime to avoid disruptions in your sleep
- Blue light filtering lenses can be helpful
- Keep screens at a comfortable distance – having screens too close to your eyes can strain them
- Try to limit your screen time – consider swapping screen time for screen-free activities like reading a physical book, gardening, taking a walk outside, enjoying a meal with friends/family, cooking, crafting, journaling
- Annual eye exams. Also discuss any specific symptoms with your eyecare health professional to find out if there are any specific treatment options or eyewear options that may help reduce/eliminate your symptoms.