Eye Health Essentials

For Children

As much as 80 percent of what we learn comes from vision, yet as many as 25 percent of children have an undiagnosed vision problem that can affect the learning process.

Many of these problems can be effectively treated.  However, children do not understand what normal or abnormal vision is. That is why it is so crucial for children to receive a comprehensive eye exam before entering school.

The Minnesota Optometric Association, along with the American Optometric Association, recommend that children receive comprehensive eye exams

• Between 6 to 12 months;
• At age 3; and
• Before beginning school.

In Eye Health Essentials for Children, see a comprehensive eye examination in action as Dr. Leah Colby explains the role of an optometric exam in helping children prepare to learn and enjoy life more fully.

For Diabetics

Diabetes has become an epidemic in the United States. Children and adults are developing the disease through poor diet and lack of exercise, as well as family history of the disease.

Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in adults in the United States. Diabetics require annual eye exams to watch for signs of diabetic retinopathy and other visual problems related to diabetes.

One of the best ways to prevent the blinding affects of diabetic retinopathy is to be proactive in managing your diabetes.

• Keep your blood sugar levels below 150;
• Check A1C levels regularly – keep them below 7.0;
• Watch your nutrition;
• Exercise; and
• Maintain good health.

In Eye Health Essentials for Diabetics, Dr. Linda Chous explains the many benefits of a comprehensive eye exam for diabetic patients, and provides suggestions for diabetics on how to maintain proper eye health as a part of overall diabetes management.

For Older Adults

The population of Minnesota, as well as the United States, is growing older. With that aging comes increased risks for particular eye diseases and conditions like

• Glaucoma;
• Macular degeneration;
• Cataracts; and
• Dry Eye.

Barring risk factors, the Minnesota Optometric Association recommends that adults receive a comprehensive eye exam once every two years, and after the age of 60, once every year, to assist with the early detection and treatment of these serious eye diseases.

In Eye Health Essentials for Older Adults, Dr. Kerry Beebe describes many of the core symptoms of major eye diseases affecting older populations.