Over 2,000 Americans suffer an eye injury each day.  This means that almost one million Americans have experienced some vision loss due to eye injury, which has resulted in more than $300 million in lost work time, medical expenses, and workman’s compensation. March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month.

Some ways to care for your eyes and keep them feeling comfortable are:

• Reposition your computer screen
• Don’t forget to blink
• Use artificial tears
• Drink water
• Schedule regular eye exams

Workplace eye wellness is essential for maintaining productivity, comfort, and long-term vision health—especially for those who spend extended time on screens.

Here are practical tips to protect your eyes at work:

Workplace Eye Wellness Tips

1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

• Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
• This helps reduce digital eye strain and keeps eye muscles relaxed.

2. Adjust Lighting

• Minimize glare from overhead lights and windows.
• Use blinds or curtains and position screens to avoid direct light.
• Prefer soft, indirect lighting around your workstation.

3. Position Your Screen Properly

• Keep the top of your monitor at or just below eye level.
• Sit about 20–28 inches from your screen.
• Tilt the monitor slightly upward for optimal viewing angle.

4. Blink Regularly

• Staring at screens reduces blink rate, leading to dry eyes.
• Make a conscious effort to blink more frequently or use artificial tears if needed.

5. Use Proper Eyewear

• Wear computer glasses if prescribed.
• Consider blue light blocking lenses for extended screen use.

6. Take Regular Breaks

• Stand up, stretch, and walk around every 30–60 minutes.
• Breaks improve circulation and reduce physical and eye fatigue.

7. Keep Screens Clean

• Dust and fingerprints can strain your eyes.
• Clean screens regularly with proper screen-safe cleaners.

8. Adjust Text Size and Contrast

• Increase font size to reduce squinting.
• Use high contrast (e.g., black text on white background) for better visibility.

9. Stay Hydrated and Maintain Good Air Quality

• Drink water to help prevent dry eyes.
• Use a humidifier in dry environments or avoid direct air from vents/fans.

10. Get Regular Eye Exams

• Annual check-ups help detect vision issues early.
• Inform your eye doctor about your screen time and work environment.

Eye health is just as important to keep your vision functioning optimally.  Squinting to see or experiencing blurry vision can be traumatic over time.  But if you continue to take your vitamins and supplements, eat the right foods, exercise, and maintain your health, your eyes will thank you for the ongoing care and you will also appreciate better vision.

Our caregivers at Assisting Hands® Home Care can help you or a loved one who needs assistance in the home with reminders to take vitamins and supplements to maximize eye and vision health.  Call us today!