AOA promotes eye health to video gamers

As part of Save Your Vision Month this March, the American Optometric Association encourages video gamers to give their eyes a rest using the 20-20-20 rule.

The AOA released data from its 2017 American Eye-Q survey indicating that while 41% of Americans play video games for more than 4 hours a week, only 21% of survey respondents consulted an eye health professional about the eye health effects of extended playing time.

The press release from AOA identified digital eye strain, sleep problems, blurred vision, headaches, and neck and shoulder pain as eye health issues caused by staring at digital devices.

For Save Your Vision Month, the AOA released a few tips on how to ease eye discomfort, starting with the 20-20-20 rule. Those using any electronic gaming device or computer should make a conscious effort to look away from the screen for 20 seconds at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes of use.

Instead of bringing the device closer to your eyes, the AOA suggests zooming in to see small print and details. It is also recommended to use a glare filter or adjust the device settings to reduce the amount of blue light reflected off the screen, buy blue light filtering glasses and turn off all digital devices an hour before bed. Lastly, the AOA advises scheduling an appointment with an optometrist to assess vision and detect and address potential vision problems.

“Those who spend excessive time in front of screens may experience physical discomfort, like the one-third of gamers who reported headaches or blurry vision in our survey,” AOA President Christopher J. Quinn, OD, said in the release. “Save Your Vision Month is the perfect time to prioritize eye health by practicing the 20-20-20 rule.”