Q. I’m in my 70s and love reading on my tablet, but I’ve noticed my eyes feel tired more quickly than they used to. Is reading on a screen bad for my eyes?
E-readers have become a popular option for many older adults because they are so lightweight and convenient. But when your eyes become tired, it’s natural to wonder if reading on a screen is doing more harm than good.
The good news is that reading on a Kindle isn’t necessarily bad for your eyes, especially if you’re using one of the models that mimic the look of paper. But even with that gentler screen, it’s still possible to experience eye strain. To ease that tired feeling, try adjusting the font size to make it easier to see without squinting. Lower your screen brightness to a more comfortable level.
When you’re reading, try following the 20, 20, 20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look away from your screen and focus on something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It gives your eye muscles a quick break and can really help with strain.
Since May is Healthy Vision Month, this is also the perfect time to consider your overall eye health. The National Eye Institute (NEI) recommends these additional tips for healthy vision:
Eat eye-friendly foods: Eating a healthy diet is good for your eye health. Try to incorporate leafy greens and fish, like salmon and tuna into your diet.
Get moving: Regular exercise improves blood circulation, which is great for the eyes. Even low-impact activities like walking or tai chi can help reduce the risk of vision loss.
Visit your eye doctor: An annual eye exam is one of the most important things you can do for your vision. It helps catch early signs of problems like glaucoma, cataracts, and age-related macular degeneration – conditions that are much easier to manage when caught early.
Protect your eyes every day: Wear sunglasses that block UV rays when you’re outside, even on cloudy days. Over time, too much sun exposure can increase your risk for cataracts and macular degeneration.
Reading should be a pleasure, not a strain. By making a few simple changes and keeping up with your regular eye care, you can keep enjoying your favorite books for many chapters to come.
Are you caring for an older adult or need help finding healthy aging resources? Our experienced staff is available to help. Visit us online at www.agespan.org. You can also call 800-892-0890 or email info@agespan.org.
Joan Hatem-Roy is the chief executive officer of AgeSpan, which serves Andover, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Methuen and North Andover.