Your vision plays a crucial role in your daily comfort, independence, and overall quality of life. As we age, maintaining both eye health and proper eyewear care can become more challenging. However, with the right approach and support from your St. Albert optometrist, keeping your eyes and glasses in excellent condition doesn’t have to be time-consuming or difficult.
By setting aside just a few minutes each day for proper eye and eyewear care, you can preserve your vision and ensure that your glasses remain comfortable and effective. Whether you need an updated prescription, a new frame style, or simple tips to extend the life of your eyewear, The Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. is here to help.
Do You Need New Glasses? Signs It’s Time for an Update
If your glasses are no longer comfortable, don’t fit properly, or feel difficult to maintain, it may be time for a change. Some signs that you should schedule an appointment with your Edmonton optometrist include:
- Frequent headaches or eye strain after reading or using screens.
- Blurry vision that wasn’t present before.
- Scratched or worn-out lenses that affect clarity.
- Frames that feel too loose or tight, causing discomfort.
- Difficulty adjusting to different lighting conditions, especially at night.
At The Optometrists’ Clinic Inc., we offer a wide range of comfortable, low-maintenance eyewear suited to your lifestyle. Whether you need lightweight frames, durable lenses, or nose pads for extra comfort, we can help you find the right pair of glasses to match your vision needs and personal style.
How to Care for Your Eyes and Eyeglasses: 3 Essential Steps
Taking care of your eyes and eyewear doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these simple yet effective strategies to keep your vision sharp and your glasses in top condition.
1. Prioritize Eye Health
The best way to keep your glasses working effectively is to maintain healthy vision in the first place. Good eye care habits include:
- Schedule an annual eye exam. Regular checkups help detect early signs of vision changes, cataracts, glaucoma, and other age-related conditions. If you experience blurry vision, discomfort, or sudden changes in eyesight, don’t wait until your next appointment—visit your optometrist as soon as possible.
- Reduce digital eye strain. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to help relax your eyes.
- Maintain a balanced diet. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc, and vitamins C and E support long-term eye health. Leafy greens, carrots, fish, and nuts are excellent choices.
- Wear sunglasses year-round. Protect your eyes from UV rays to reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.
- Use your prescription glasses consistently. Wearing your glasses as recommended helps prevent unnecessary eye strain and supports optimal vision.
2. Take Proper Care of Your Eyeglasses
Proper eyewear maintenance ensures clear vision and longer-lasting frames. Here’s how to keep your glasses in excellent condition:
- Store them properly: Always place your glasses in a protective case when not in use. If you have mobility concerns, consider using a glasses holder or clip to keep them easily accessible.
- Clean your lenses the right way: Use mild dish soap and warm water to wash your lenses, then dry them with a clean, soft cotton cloth. Avoid using paper towels, tissues, or clothing, as they can scratch the lenses.
- Handle with care: Never place your glasses face-down on a surface, and use both hands when putting them on or taking them off to maintain proper alignment.
- Avoid extreme temperatures: Leaving your glasses in a hot car or exposing them to freezing temperatures can damage lenses and frames.
3. Be Aware of Common Age-Related Vision Changes
As we age, our vision naturally changes. Being proactive can help prevent serious issues and ensure early intervention when needed. Some common eye conditions to be mindful of include:
- Cataracts – A clouding of the lens that leads to blurry vision and increased sensitivity to light.
- Glaucoma – Increased eye pressure that can cause peripheral vision loss if left untreated.
- Macular Degeneration – A condition that affects central vision, making activities like reading and driving difficult.
- Dry Eyes – A common issue caused by reduced tear production, leading to irritation, redness, and discomfort.
- Floaters or Flashes – Seeing sudden flashes of light or dark spots can indicate retinal issues that require immediate medical attention.
If you notice changes in vision, prolonged dryness, excessive tearing, or unusual floaters, book an appointment with your Edmonton optometrist right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help preserve your eyesight.
Book Your Next Eye Exam with The Optometrists’ Clinic Inc.
Your eyes deserve the best care at every stage of life. Whether you need a routine exam, a new prescription, or expert advice on eyewear maintenance, our team is here to help.
📅 Schedule an appointment today at one of our convenient locations in St. Albert and across Edmonton. Contact us online or visit us in person to learn more about our comprehensive vision care services and high-quality eyewear options.
🔹 The Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. – Trusted vision care for clearer, healthier eyesight.
