Tips to reduce nearsightedness amid the digital era

The pervasive use of gadgets in daily life has led to a significant increase in myopia, or nearsightedness, affecting various age demographics. As activities increasingly shift to digital screens for work, education, shopping, and entertainment, eyes are subjected to prolonged close-up focus, straining vision.

Ns Diah Ayu Agustin, Head of Public Relations and a Pediatric Nursing Lecturer at Akper Bina Insan, highlighted that lifestyle changes are a primary driver of rising myopia cases. "Children, teenagers, and office workers today spend more time in front of screens than engaging in outdoor activities. This habit increases the risk of developing nearsightedness if not balanced with a healthy lifestyle," she stated.

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Children, teenagers, and office workers today spend more time in front of screens than engaging in outdoor activities. This habit increases the risk of developing nearsightedness if not balanced with a healthy lifestyle.

Agustin explained that myopia occurs when light entering the eye does not focus directly on the retina, causing distant objects to appear blurry. This condition can be influenced by both genetics and daily habits. A simple yet effective practice is the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes of screen time, look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

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The 20-20-20 rule is very effective in reducing eye muscle strain. This small habit is often underestimated, yet its benefits are substantial for maintaining eye comfort during work or study.

"The 20-20-20 rule is very effective in reducing eye muscle strain. This small habit is often underestimated, yet its benefits are substantial for maintaining eye comfort during work or study," Agustin noted. She also emphasized limiting overall gadget usage to prevent digital eye strain, characterized by tired, dry eyes and headaches. Furthermore, regular outdoor activities are crucial, as exposure to natural light benefits eye health, especially in growing children. "We recommend children and adults spend time outdoors every day. Besides being good for eye health, outdoor physical activities also support overall body health," she added.

Nutritionally, eye health can be supported by consuming foods rich in Vitamin A, C, E, zinc, lutein, and omega-3. Foods like carrots, spinach, broccoli, eggs, salmon, avocados, oranges, and papayas are beneficial. Consistent healthy eating habits contribute to long-term eye condition maintenance.

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We recommend children and adults spend time outdoors every day. Besides being good for eye health, outdoor physical activities also support overall body health.