Mobile Computing and Technology Causing Eye Strain in America – The Beaver County Association for the Blind is Fighting to Prevent Damage
As businesses and employers are encouraging more use of mobile computing and technology, the Pennsylvania Association for the Blind has seen an increase in eye strain, or Asthenopia. Asthenopia is a very common condition that occurs when eyes are over used. Smartphones, laptops, and tablets are becoming more common in the workplace and employees are spending a lot more time squinting, reading and staring intently at very small text and messages.
Eye strain can cause fatigue, pain, headaches and weaken or impair vision. These vision problems can carry quite an expense and reduce productivity in a business, while many employers may think newer technology should increase productivity.
As part of March’s Workplace Eye Wellness Month, the Beaver County Association for the Blind encourages employers and employees to make a few simple changes to prevent this issue:
Place your screen 20 to 26 inches away from your eyes and a little bit below eye level.
Use a document holder placed next to your computer screen. It should be close enough so you don’t have to swing your head back and forth or constantly change your eye focus.
Change your lighting to lower glare and harsh reflections. Glare filters over your computer screen can also help.
Use an adjustable chair.
Choose screens that can tilt and swivel. An adjustable keyboard can also be helpful.
Try putting down your electronic devices for an entire day each week. If a day is too long, employ the 20-20-20 rule. After each 20 minutes you have focused on a screen of any size, glance up and look at a point at least 20 feet away, for 20 seconds. This allows your eyes to blink and gives your eyes a rest.
Get adequate sleep. A solid eight hours of sleep will improve your eye health, as well as your overall health.
Eye strain is a serious issue that can compromise your vision, eye health, and work productivity. Taking advantage of some of these easy steps will make for a healthier, happier workplace.
Contact: Janice Beaver – BC Assn. f/t Blind Phone: 724-843-1111 Email: Janice@bcblind.org