New Year Resolutions for Vision

College urges public to book their next regular eye test as part of New Year health resolutions

The College of Optometrists has launched a campaign calling on the public to book their next regular eye test as part of New Year health resolutions. Good eye health isn’t just about being able to see clearly and checking that your glasses or contact lens are the correct prescription. Not only can regular eye tests help detect eye conditions such as glaucoma and cataract they can also play a key role in the early detection of other health conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, often before other symptoms appear.

The College of Optometrists is encouraging all adults to make sure they go for regular eye tests every two years, or more regularly if recommended by their optometrist. The College is also reminding parents and carers to make sure to take children for an eye test at their local optical practice every two years too.

Denise Voon MCOptom, clinical adviser to The College of Optometrists, said, “Going for regular eye tests means any issues with your vision or eye health are detected, diagnosed and treated as early as possible. Eye conditions can emerge at any stage of our lives, from squints and short-sightedness (myopia) that develop in childhood, through to age-related conditions, including presbyopia (struggling with near sight such as reading a restaurant menu or phone screen) and AMD from our forties onwards.

“At your eye test, your optometrist will check for any vision or eye health issues and prescribe glasses or contact lenses if needed. By booking your next regular eye test, practising healthy screen habits, or making sure to remember to wear your glasses when you need them, you can help ensure you have clearer, healthier eyesight for many years to come.”

Many people in the UK qualify for a free NHS funded eye test, including those over 60, children age 18 and under and in full-time education, those at risk of some eye conditions, and people receiving income support. Check if you are eligible on the NHS website. In Scotland, everybody can access an NHS funded eye test.

College members can download social media assets to support the campaign via the College website: College urges public to book their next regular eye test as part of New Year health resolutions – College of Optometrists