Daily Habits That Help Slow Myopia Progression

Myopia is becoming increasingly common among children and young adults. While genetics play a role, lifestyle habits are proving to be a significant factor in how quickly myopia progresses. The good news is with a few mindful daily habits, you can help preserve your child’s vision and support their long-term eye health.

Encourage More Outdoor Time

Spending at least 1-2 hours outdoors each day has been shown to slow the progression of myopia in children. Natural light helps the eyes focus on distant objects, giving them a much-needed break from close-up work. Whether it’s playing in the yard, going for a walk, or participating in sports, time outside is one of the most beneficial habits for maintaining healthy eyesight.

Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

With the rise of digital learning and entertainment, children are spending more time than ever in front of screens. The 20-20-20 rule is an easy way to reduce eye strain: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This simple habit allows the focusing muscles in the eyes to relax and recover.

Maintain Good Reading and Screen Habits

When reading or using a tablet, keep the material at least 14-16 inches from the eyes and ensure the area is well lit. Avoid reading in dim light or while lying down, as these positions can increase strain on the eyes. Encourage your child to take short breaks during homework or screen time to give their vision a rest.

Ensure Proper Nutrition

A balanced diet supports eye health and may play a role in slowing myopia progression. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, vitamin C, and zinc - such as fish, leafy greens, carrots, and citrus fruits - help keep the eyes healthy. Staying hydrated is equally important to prevent dry eyes and discomfort.

Schedule Regular Pediatric Eye Exams

Routine pediatric eye exams in Normal, IL, are essential for detecting early signs of myopia and monitoring its progression. At Rieger Eyecare Group, our optometrists use advanced diagnostic technology to assess your child’s vision and eye health. Regular visits allow us to tailor a myopia management plan to meet your child’s unique needs.

Explore Professional Myopia Management in Normal

If your child’s myopia is worsening, our myopia management in Normal services offer proven methods to help control its progression. Options like orthokeratology (Ortho-K), dual focus soft contact lenses, progressive multifocal glasses, and atropine eye drops are designed to reshape how the eye focuses light and reduce strain on growing eyes.

Partner with Rieger Eyecare Group for Expert Myopia Control

Building healthy vision habits early on can make a lasting difference in your child’s eyesight. From spending more time outdoors to visiting your eye doctor in Normal regularly, small steps can lead to big improvements in slowing myopia progression.

Schedule a pediatric eye exam at Rieger Eyecare Group and learn more about personalized myopia management options. Visit our office in Normal, Illinois, or call (309) 320-2020 to book an appointment today.