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What Seniors Can Do About Computer Eye Strain

Senior Care in Huntington NY

Seniors who enjoy using computers may have found that computers have made their lives easier in many ways.  They can communicate with family quickly and easily through email and video chat, they can find useful information with the click of a mouse, and they can share photos with friends and family through social media.  While technology can bring a lot of joy to a senior’s life, seniors must use computers with caution to prevent computer eye strain.

What is Computer Eye Strain?

Computer eye strain is actually so common that it has an official name – Computer Vision Syndrome, or CVS.  CVS is the blanket term for computer use-related vision and eye problems.  Some signs and symptoms of CVS include headaches, dry eyes, blurred vision after using the computer, eye strain, and even neck and shoulder pain.  CVS does not typically cause the eyes any permanent damage, but it can be irritating to seniors and make computers less enjoyable to use.

How is CVS Prevented?

For preventing the symptoms of CVS and for general eye health, seniors should continue to get regular eye exams.  Changes in eyeglass prescriptions can affect the way seniors view the computer screen, so it is important to keep prescriptions up to date.  Here are a few other tips seniors can use to help prevent CVS:

•   Take a break from looking at the computer screen (or tablet or E-reader) every 15-20 minutes.  Getting up and stretching can help to alleviate neck and shoulder stiffness and it is good for the eyes to take a rest from the screen.

•   Dust and dirt can make the screen appear less clear.  For this reason, remember to clean the screen regularly to keep it looking sharp.

•   Don’t sit too close to the screen and make sure to sit with good posture.  Keep the computer about an arm’s length away from your face and sit with your back straight and tall.

•   Adjust the lighting in the room to find what is most comfortable for your eyes.  Everyone has individual preferences when it comes to background lighting.  Experiment with dimmer or brighter lighting to see which is more comfortable for you.  Also make sure to reduce glare.

•   If you are using a computer for long periods of time most days of the week, an eye doctor may recommend computer glasses.  These lenses are designed specifically for using the computer and they will be different from your normal, everyday glasses.

If you or an aging loved one are in need of senior care services in Huntington, NY or the surrounding areas, contact the caring professionals at Star Multi Care Services today at (631)956-8835. We are the Right Choice for Home Health Care Services!

 

Source: http://healthland.time.com/2012/09/13/computer-eye-strain-explained-and-how-to-avoid-it/

Stephen Sternbach

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