As we pass the age of forty, many of us begin to notice subtle shifts in our vision. Reading fine print or adjusting to changing light can become more difficult that’s often the onset of presbyopia, where the eye’s natural lens loses flexibility and makes near tasks harder without reading glasses.

Another frequent culprit is dry eyes, driven by reduced tear production. Common signs include irritation, blurred vision, or a stinging sensation, especially in air-conditioned spaces, during screen use, or in dry climates. Simple remedies like artificial tears, blinking more, or using a humidifier can bring noticeable relief.

Cataracts clouding of the eye’s lens, often emerge gradually around this age. They may cause halos, glare, dull colors, or difficulty with night driving. The only definitive treatment is outpatient surgery, where the clouded lens is replaced, restoring clear vision.

More serious yet manageable eye conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration also become more common. Glaucoma—an often silent condition—can damage peripheral vision and requires regular eye pressure checks. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects central vision and may be treated through injections, lasers, or supplements to slow vision loss.

You might also notice floaters or flashing shadows drifting across your vision. While often harmless, a sudden increase could indicate a retinal issue that requires prompt evaluation by an eye professional.

The best defense against age-related eye changes? Regular comprehensive eye exams, ideally every one to two years after age forty. Combine these with healthy lifestyle habits like a diet rich in lutein, leafy greens, and omega-3s, protection from UV light, staying active, and quitting smoking.

Wearing contact lenses can be a convenient and comfortable alternative to glasses, but they require proper care to keep your eyes healthy. Good habits not only help maintain clear vision but also reduce the risk of eye infections and discomfort. By following the right cleaning, handling, and storage practices, you can enjoy the benefits of contact lenses while protecting your eyes from potential issues.

One of the most important steps in contact lens care is maintaining clean hands before touching your lenses. Always wash your hands with soap and water, then dry them thoroughly with a lint free towel before inserting or removing your lenses. This helps prevent the transfer of bacteria, dirt, and oils from your fingers to your eyes, reducing the risk of irritation or infection.

Proper cleaning and storage of your lenses are also essential for eye health. If you use reusable lenses, clean them with the recommended contact lens solution after each use. Never use tap water or saliva, as these can introduce harmful microorganisms. Store your lenses in a clean, dry case filled with fresh solution, and replace the case at least every three months to prevent bacterial buildup.

Following your eye care professional’s instructions for lens wear time is another key step. Overwearing contact lenses can reduce oxygen supply to your eyes, leading to dryness, redness, and potential long term damage. Whether you use daily, biweekly, or monthly lenses, stick to the recommended replacement schedule and avoid sleeping in lenses unless your optometrist has approved it.

Keeping your eyes hydrated is also important for comfort when wearing contact lenses. Drink enough water throughout the day and consider using preservative free lubricating eye drops if you experience dryness. If you spend a lot of time in front of screens or in air conditioned environments, remember to blink regularly and take short breaks to reduce eye strain.

Lastly, make sure to schedule regular eye exams to monitor your eye health. Even if your vision feels fine, routine checkups allow your optometrist to detect any early signs of problems and ensure your lenses are still the best fit for your needs. By combining proper hygiene, careful handling, and regular professional care, you can enjoy clear, comfortable vision with your contact lenses for years to come.

Change in your vision can happen gradually, making it easy to miss the telltale signs that you might benefit from glasses or a refreshed prescription. One of the most common indicators is blurry vision—whether things up close or far away appear fuzzy, and the issue doesn’t improve with rest, it’s a clear prompt to schedule an eye exam.

If you notice frequent headaches after reading, working, or spending time on screens, your eyes may be straining to compensate for blurred vision. Squinting to bring things into focus is another sign your eyes are overworking—squinting narrows your vision but should not be a habit for seeing clearly.

Experiencing double vision or sensitivity to glare and light issues—such as halos around streetlights—can indicate an outdated prescription or more complex refractive errors like astigmatism. Likewise, discomfort or difficulty seeing in dim lighting—especially when driving at night—may suggest a need for vision correction or lens updates.

Eye fatigue and dry or irritated eyes—especially toward the end of the day—can signal that your current lenses are no longer supporting clear vision. These symptoms may indicate you need stronger correction or lenses optimized for prolonged screen use.

Typically, it is advised to update your glasses prescription every one to two years, depending on your age and vision stability. However, if you notice any persistent signs—like those above—a visit to your optometrist is warranted sooner.

At Findlay Creek Eye Clinic, we conduct personalized eye exams that assess both your clarity and eye health. If any of these symptoms resonate, booking an appointment can help ensure your vision remains sharp and comfortable with an up-to-date prescription tailored to your needs..

Even when your child shows no obvious vision trouble, regular eye exams are essential. A comprehensive exam is the only way to ensure their eyes are developing properly and to catch early problems like lazy eye that may not be noticeable without professional screening .

These appointments help prevent learning and developmental delays tied to undetected vision issues.

Vision plays a critical role in your child’s ability to learn and engage with the world. With around 80% of learning being visual, undiagnosed eye conditions—such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or refractive errors—can go unnoticed and have a lasting impact.

Treating issues early not only supports academic success but can also reduce misdiagnoses of conditions like ADHD or dyslexia, Ontario Association of OptometristsAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology.

Experts recommend the first eye exam between six and nine months of age, with follow-ups at age two to three, then again before starting school (around age five or six). After that, school-aged children should have exams annually to track vision development.

Most of Ontario’s children can get these exams covered annually under OHIP, and programs like Eye See…Eye Learn provide one free pair of children’s glasses for eligible kindergarteners.

Children can develop serious but rare eye conditions that require early intervention. Conditions such as strabismus (crossed eyes), amblyopia (lazy eye), congenital cataracts, and in very rare cases, eye cancers like retinoblastoma need prompt attention.

The earlier these are identified and treated, the better the outcomes for visual development.

While vision screenings in schools or clinics can help identify potential issues, they do not replace comprehensive exams. Vision screenings often miss more subtle problems like eye teaming, tracking, or early signs of visual dysfunction, areas that only a full exam can assess properly.

Finally, the rise of digital screen time has contributed to increasing rates of nearsightedness in children. Limiting screen use and encouraging at least two hours of outdoor play per day can help slow its progression.

Simple habits like following the 20-20-20 rule every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

A well-rounded diet rich in certain nutrients plays a powerful role in safeguarding your vision. Antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals such as zinc, help protect your eyes from oxidative stress and age related conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts. These nutrients are the frontline defense for your retina and overall eye health.

Carotenoids, specifically lutein and zeaxanthin, are essential for eye protection. Found abundantly in dark leafy greens such as spinach and kale, and also in egg yolks, corn, and orange peppers, they help absorb harmful blue light and reduce the risk of age related vision decline.

Omega 3 fatty acids, especially DHA and EPA found in oily fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines, support retina health and help reduce dry eye symptoms. Their anti-inflammatory properties make them a smart addition for maintaining long term ocular function.

Other beneficial nutrients include zinc, which supports retinal structure and is found in foods like oysters, nuts, and legumes; vitamin C, which helps combat cataracts and is abundant in citrus fruits and bell peppers; and vitamin E, which is present in almonds, sunflower seeds, and green leafy vegetables to help neutralize damaging free radicals.

In 2025, new findings reveal that just two handfuls of pistachios a day can significantly boost lutein levels and support macular health. This highlights the importance of nutrient rich snacks even in small quantities for maintaining healthy eyesight.

At Findlay Creek Eye Clinic, we recommend a diet rich in colorful produce, fish, nuts, eggs, and whole foods as a foundation for eye health. For tailored guidance, especially if you have existing eye concerns, schedule a consultation to ensure your nutrition complements your vision wellness plan.

Dry eyes occur when your eyes either do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to an unstable tear film. This can trigger discomfort and even damage to the eye’s surface. Contributors range from aging, hormonal shifts, and certain medical conditions to environmental triggers and overuse of screens.

You may notice symptoms such as burning, stinging, a scratchy or gritty sensation, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. Ironically, dry eyes may cause watery eyes as your eye reflexively produces poor quality tears.

Simple lifestyle adjustments can make a meaningful difference. Blinking more often, using humidifiers, avoiding direct wind or air blowing in your eyes, and positioning your screen lower to reduce tear evaporation are all recommended.

At-home remedies often work well for mild cases. These include daily warm compresses and gentle eyelid cleaning to stimulate oil gland function, artificial tears or lubricating gels, and dietary additions such as omega-3 rich foods or supplements.

When symptoms persist, more advanced solutions may be needed. Options include preservative-free or prescription eye drops like cyclosporine or lifitegrast, punctal plugs to slow tear drainage, moisture-retaining scleral lenses, and therapies such as intense pulsed light or gland clearing procedures.

Left untreated, dry eye can lead to complications like surface inflammation, corneal damage, or even infection, which can affect vision quality. Regular checkups at Findlay Creek Eye Clinic can pinpoint the underlying causes and guide a personalized treatment plan to restore comfort and clarity.

Even if your vision seems perfectly clear, regular eye exams are still essential. Many common eye conditions like glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, and macular degeneration can develop slowly without any noticeable symptoms. By the time a person experiences vision changes, permanent damage may have already occurred. Routine eye exams help detect these issues early, allowing for timely treatment and better outcomes.

A full eye exam is much more than a simple vision screening. During the visit, your optometrist will assess the overall health of your eyes, review your medical and family history, and check for early signs of conditions that might not cause symptoms right away. This includes measuring eye pressure, testing peripheral vision, examining the retina, and evaluating how well your eyes work together.

Even people in their twenties and thirties who do not need glasses should have an eye exam every few years. After age forty, more frequent checkups are recommended as the risk of developing age-related eye conditions increases. Regular exams are a proactive step to protect your long-term vision, especially as your eyes naturally change with age.

At Findlay Creek Eye Clinic, we use advanced technology to perform comprehensive eye exams for patients of all ages. From retinal imaging to visual field testing, our goal is to identify any potential concerns early. We also assess eye surface health to check for dryness or irritation that may be caused by screen use, environmental exposure, or underlying conditions.

If you take certain medications or have conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, your eyes could be at greater risk. In these cases, eye exams can catch changes before they affect your vision. Your optometrist will tailor the visit to your unique needs, ensuring that your eye health is monitored closely and consistently.

Clear vision today does not always mean your eyes are healthy. Regular eye exams are an important part of maintaining overall wellness. If it has been more than a year since your last visit, schedule an appointment through our Book an Eye Exam Now page. You can also explore helpful resources like Signs It’s Time for an Eye Exam and Common Eye Tests Done During a Regular Eye Exam to stay informed.

Exposure to blue‑white (HEV) light from screens—like smartphones, tablets, and laptops—has been strongly associated with symptoms of digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome. Common complaints include dry or irritated eyes, blurred vision, headaches, and even neck pain from extended screen use. These issues are often driven not by the blue light itself, but by reduced blinking and constant near-focus that strain the eye muscles over time locations.visionworks.com+6drgreenoptical.com+6American Academy of Ophthalmology+6Wikipedia+2amaEyes+2.

At high energy wavelengths (around 415–450 nm), blue light can penetrate through the cornea and lens to reach the retina, potentially creating oxidative stress and inflammation in ocular surface cells. Over time, this may play a role—especially when compounded by other risk factors—in the development of dry eye or retinal stress PMC.

Blue light exposure also influences your internal clock by suppressing melatonin, the hormone that governs sleep‑wake cycles. Even low levels of evening blue light—for example from your screen or ambient LEDs—can delay melatonin release, disrupt sleep onset, and reduce sleep quality. This effect is notably more pronounced than other visible light types Harvard HealthWikipediaamaEyes.

Despite popular belief, the bulk of scientific evidence to date suggests that the amount of blue light emitted from digital devices is not sufficient to cause permanent retinal damage or significantly increase risk of conditions like macular degeneration. Studies consistently show screen devices emit far less blue light than the natural sunlight levels required to induce photochemical harm mdpi.com+2amaEyes+2.

Rather than relying on blue‑light‑filtering glasses—which research does not support as an effective standalone preventative—optometrists recommend behavioral and environmental strategies. These include using built‑in night‑mode or display filters, following the 20‑20‑20 rule (take a 20‑second break every 20 minutes to view something 20 feet away), increasing ambient lighting, and encouraging regular blinking to maintain tear film health Wikipedia+4eyecarefirst.net+4health.com+4.

At Findlay Creek Eye Clinic, we offer comprehensive eye examinations to assess and address symptoms of digital eye strain or irritation. Our evaluations can help identify underlying issues—such as dry eye syndrome or early visual fatigue—and guide personalized solutions, including screen ergonomics, vision correction, and healthy sleep hygiene habits to protect your eyesight in today’s screen‑dominant world.

Everyday habits may seem minor, but when it comes to eye health, consistency makes all the difference. Incorporating simple practices such as staying hydrated or setting up your screen ergonomically can reduce fatigue, dryness, and long term strain on the eyes. These small changes help protect your vision in a world where screens are part of daily life.

One of the most effective daily routines is the 20 20 20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Use this time to blink slowly and fully. This simple habit reduces digital eye strain and allows your eyes to rehydrate, preventing both focusing fatigue and discomfort caused by dryness.

Nutrition and hydration also play a vital role in maintaining healthy vision. A diet rich in leafy greens, colorful vegetables, omega 3 fatty acids from fish and nuts, and vitamins C and E helps protect important parts of the eye like the retina and macula. Drinking enough water throughout the day supports natural tear production and prevents the eyes from becoming dry and irritated.

Proper posture and screen positioning are essential as well. Keep your monitor at eye level and about 20 to 25 inches away. Sit with a straight back and adjust lighting to minimize glare. These small adjustments reduce tension in your eyes, neck, and shoulders, which in turn lowers your risk of developing strain related headaches.

Protecting your eyes outdoors is just as important. Wear sunglasses that block 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays whenever you are in the sun. This helps prevent long term damage such as cataracts and macular issues. Also, be cautious when using redness relief drops, as some formulas can cause more dryness if used too often.

Finally, make sure you get enough sleep each night, ideally seven to nine hours and schedule regular eye exams even if your vision seems fine. Quality sleep gives your eyes time to recover, and routine checkups help detect any early signs of conditions such as glaucoma or diabetic eye disease. These habits together form the foundation of long lasting eye health.