Our eyes are vital to how we experience the world, yet they’re often taken for granted. Harmony Bou-Abbse, a celebrated expert in vision care, shares her top 10 tips to help you maintain healthy eyes and preserve your vision for years to come. Incorporating these habits into your daily routine can make a significant difference in your overall eye health.

1. Schedule Regular Eye Exams

One of the most important steps in maintaining good vision is scheduling routine eye exams. Harmony Bou-Abbse emphasizes that regular check-ups can help detect conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration early, improving the chances of effective treatment.

• Adults under 40: Every two years
• Adults over 40 or with a family history of eye diseases: Annually

Comprehensive exams that include dilation are crucial for a full understanding of your eye health.

2. Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays

Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to long-term damage, including cataracts and macular degeneration. Bou-Abbse recommends wearing sunglasses that block 100% UVA and UVB rays whenever you’re outside, even on cloudy days. Adding a wide-brimmed hat can provide extra protection.

3. Maintain a Nutrient-Rich Diet

What you eat has a direct impact on your vision. Bou-Abbse advises including the following nutrients in your diet:

• Vitamin A: Found in carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens
• Lutein and Zeaxanthin: Found in kale, spinach, and eggs
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds

Staying hydrated also helps prevent dry eyes and ensures optimal eye function.

4. Practice the 20-20-20 Rule

With the increasing use of digital devices, digital eye strain has become a common problem. Bou-Abbse suggests the 20-20-20 rule to reduce strain:

• Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

This simple exercise helps relax the eye muscles and reduces fatigue.

5. Prioritize Eye Hygiene

Good eye hygiene is essential to prevent infections and irritation. Bou-Abbse’s key tips include:

• Washing your hands before touching your eyes
• Cleaning and replacing contact lenses as directed
• Avoiding rubbing your eyes, which can introduce bacteria

6. Limit Screen Time

Prolonged exposure to screens can cause dryness, irritation, and blurred vision. Bou-Abbse recommends limiting screen time, especially before bedtime, and taking frequent breaks. Adjusting the brightness and contrast of your devices can also reduce strain.

7. Exercise Regularly

Physical activity isn’t just good for your body; it’s beneficial for your eyes too. Cardiovascular exercises improve blood flow, which is essential for maintaining healthy retinal function. Bou-Abbse suggests incorporating activities like walking, cycling, or yoga into your daily routine.

8. Get Enough Sleep

Quality sleep is essential for overall health, including eye health. Sleep allows your eyes to rest and recover from daily strain. Bou-Abbse recommends:

• Creating a relaxing bedtime routine
• Using blackout curtains to create a dark sleeping environment
• Avoiding screens an hour before bed

9. Monitor Your Vision

Pay attention to any changes in your vision, such as blurry sight, difficulty focusing, or persistent dryness. Bou-Abbse advises seeking medical attention if you notice any unusual symptoms, as early detection can prevent more severe issues.

10. Educate Your Family

Eye health isn’t just an individual responsibility; it’s a family affair. Bou-Abbse stresses the importance of educating children and loved ones about good vision habits. Encourage regular check-ups and ensure they’re following practices like wearing sunglasses and taking breaks from screens.

Harmony Bou-Abbse’s expert tips provide a roadmap for maintaining healthy vision throughout your life. By prioritizing eye exams, adopting a nutritious diet, and practicing good habits, you can protect your eyesight and enjoy clear vision for years to come. Remember, your eyes are irreplaceable—take care of them every day.