Technology has become an inextricable part of our lives and in a world where kids spend more time online than ever, it’s no surprise that myopia (nearsightedness) is on the rise.
At Project Eyecare Optometry in Mission Viejo, Dr. Tsai is seeing more young patients whose vision is changing rapidly—often linked to extended time on screens. This blog explores the connection between screen time and myopia, plus what you can do to protect your child’s vision with effective myopia management strategies.
How Screen Time Affects Developing Eyes
Children's eyes are still growing, and excessive near work—like reading, studying, or staring at tablets—can encourage the eye to elongate. This elongation leads to myopia, making distant objects appear blurry. The more time spent on screens, especially without breaks or outdoor activity, the faster this progression can occur.
According to the World Health Organization, myopia is expected to affect half of the global population by 2050, with digital habits playing a significant role.
What Parents Can Do to Reduce Risk
Dr. Tsai recommends these practical strategies for families:
- Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.
- Increase Outdoor Time: Encourage at least 2 hours of outdoor activity daily. Natural light plays a protective role in eye development.
- Limit Unnecessary Screen Use: Create screen-free zones during meals, before bedtime, and during outdoor play.
- Monitor Posture and Distance: Children should view screens at arm’s length with proper lighting and posture.
Myopia Management Options at Project Eyecare Optometry
For children already showing signs of myopia, Dr. Tsai offers advanced management solutions:
- Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Special lenses worn overnight to reshape the cornea and slow progression.
- Low-Dose Atropine Drops: Clinically proven to reduce the speed of myopic eye growth.
- Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses: Designed to shift focus and reduce eye strain that contributes to elongation.
Each child receives a personalized treatment plan based on their lifestyle, prescription, and progression rate.
Book Your Child’s Myopia Consultation Today
Worried about how screen time is affecting your child’s eyes? Schedule a myopia consultation with Dr. Tsai at Project Eyecare Optometry in Mission Viejo to create a customized plan to protect their long-term vision.