Your vision is one of your most important assets — and there’s plenty you can do to protect it for life.

Get a Comprehensive Eye Exam

A dilated eye exam is quick, painless, and hands down the best thing you can do for your eyes.

Even if your vision feels perfectly fine, eye diseases can develop silently without early warning signs. A dilated exam lets your eye doctor spot problems early — when treatment is most effective.

If you don’t have an eye doctor, it’s worth finding one and scheduling regular checkups.

Know Your Risk Factors

Some people are more prone to eye problems than others. You may be at higher risk if you:

• Are over 40
• Carry extra weight
• Have diabetes or high blood pressure
• Have a family history of glaucoma, macular degeneration, or other eye diseases
• Are African American, Hispanic, or Native American

If any of these apply to you, talk with your doctor about prevention and screening options.

Learn Your Family History

Eye conditions often run in families. Ask your relatives about any eye diseases they’ve had and share that information with your optometrist or ophthalmologist — it can make a big difference in early detection.

Protect Your Vision as You Age

While some vision changes are a normal part of getting older, many causes of vision loss are preventable. Consistent eye exams and healthy daily habits can help preserve your sight well into the future.

Healthy Habits for Healthy Eyes

Eat for Eye Health

Fill your plate with dark leafy greens like kale, spinach, and collard greens, and include omega-3–rich fish such as salmon, tuna, and halibut. These foods nourish your eyes and support long-term visual function.

Stay Active

Exercise keeps blood flow strong and helps prevent diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol — all of which can harm your eyes over time.

Quit Smoking

Smoking damages more than your lungs. It increases your risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and nerve damage in the eyes. If you’re trying to quit, you can get free help by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW or visiting Smokefree.gov.

Everyday Eye Protection

Shield Your Eyes from the Sun

Wear sunglasses that block 99–100% of UVA and UVB rays whenever you’re outdoors — even on cloudy days.

Use Safety Eyewear

Protective goggles or safety glasses are essential for certain activities like home improvement projects, construction, or sports.

Give Your Eyes a Break

If you spend long hours on screens, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It helps reduce eye strain and fatigue.

Care for Contact Lenses Properly

Always wash your hands before handling contacts, disinfect them as directed, and replace them on schedule to prevent infections.

By combining smart habits, regular checkups, and a healthy lifestyle, you can keep your vision sharp — and protect your eyes for the years ahead.