In recent years, spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic, children have been increasing their daily screen time. Between remote schoolwork, social media, streaming, etc. children have been spending more time looking at screens than ever. Pediatric Optometrist Yos Priestley, OD spoke to WNCN CBS-17 to increase awareness about the impacts of screen time on children's vision.
According to Dr. Priestley, this increase in screen time, especially at a close proximity, can increase the chances of a child developing nearsightedness.
"The closer you hold things to your face, the higher your risk of affecting your vision long-term, and inducing nearsightedness."
- Yos Priestley, OD
Dr. Priestley believes education is the key to protecting children's vision, and provided some recommendations that could help reduce the risk of developing vision loss: "Follow the 20/20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look off at the distance." This, Dr. Priestley noted, will give the eyes a chance to relax and reset. Some other recommendations include spending 1-2 hours outside every day and keeping up with regular eye exams. This will allow doctors to detect and treat any arising vision problems.