OPTOMETRISTS are urging parents to limit the amount of time children spend on phones and computer screens.
Children aged between five and twelve-years-old are spending three times longer on screen as recommended by the World Health Organisation, a new report has found. Increased screen time can lead to eye issues such as short-sightedness.
Cheltenham East Specsavers optometrist Kam Kabiri said myopia, short-sightedness, is “typically successfully managed with prescription lenses, if left undiagnosed, it can impact day-to-day life.”
“As optometrists, we like to encourage parents, carers and teachers to ensure their children have their first eye test before starting school to detect and correct or manage any issues, so they don’t go untreated. Children’s eyes are still developing during their schooling years, and they can’t always tell you if they may not be able to see properly. If your child complains about headaches, blurred vision, trouble focusing or any other issues with their eyes, I recommend booking an appointment with an optometrist immediately rather than waiting until their next check-up.”
Kabiri said that limiting up-close tasks, taking regular screen breaks, and having regular eye tests can help protect children’s vision.
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 17 January 2024