KR HR & TRAINING NEWS ARTICLES

Just like the rest of our body, our eyes can become inefficient as we age.  The natural lens of our eyes becomes less flexible over time making it more difficult to focus on objects.  But the good news is that there are steps we can all take to help protect our vision. 

National Eye Health Week runs from 23 – 29th September 2024.  This week is all about raising awareness of the importance of eye health and encouraging everyone to get regular eye tests.

Staggering Stats!

• 10% of UK adults have never had an eye examination.
• 26% of drivers have not had their vision tested in the last two years.
• 2 million people in the UK are living with sight loss, that is severe enough to have a significant impact on their daily lives. Half of this sight loss is avoidable.

How to Improve eye health and eyesight

• Get regular eye exams/check-ups – essential for maintaining good eye health
• Learn hereditary risk factors for ocular disease
• Maintain a healthy diet
• Use vitamins and nutritional supplements
• Exercise regularly (reducing risk of diabetes one of the biggest threats to vision health)
• Use protective eyewear/goggles (including sunglasses)
• Keep hands and contact lenses clean

Eye Tests

A sight test can detect early signs of conditions like glaucoma, which can be treated if found soon enough.  Health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure may be detected too.

If employees use display screen equipment for more than an hour per day employers should pay for eye tests.

Glasses

An employer will cover the cost of any necessary eyewear prescribed specifically for screen use however, employers do not have to pay if normal prescription glasses are needed to see the screen properly.

Employee Benefits

Some employers offer a benefits package or a health cash plan which includes eye cover allowing employees to get money towards new frames and lenses.

So don’t forget to check with your benefit provide if eye care is covered.

Let’s make the most of National Eye Health Week by taking care of our vision.  Remember, #Visionmatters and #EyeWeek.