How Can Lifestyle Adjustments Help Prevent Myopia from Worsening?

Myopia is becoming more common among children and young adults, especially in today’s screen-heavy world. If you’ve noticed your child squinting at the board in school or struggling to see objects in the distance, myopia may already be affecting their vision. While myopia can’t be reversed, there are ways to slow its progression and help protect your child’s eyesight as they grow. At OceanClear Eyecare, we work closely with families in Renton and the surrounding communities to provide personalized myopia management strategies.

Encourage More Outdoor Time

Spending time outdoors, even for just 90 minutes a day, has been shown to slow myopia progression in children. Natural light helps regulate eye growth, reducing the chances of rapid nearsightedness development. Instead of another hour on the iPad or gaming console, encourage activities like biking through Cedar River Trail, playing soccer at Gene Coulon Park, or simply taking a walk together as a family.

Manage Screen Time Wisely

With online learning, video games, and social media, screen time is almost unavoidable. However, excessive near work can strain the eyes and worsen myopia. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple habit helps relax the eyes and prevents unnecessary strain.

Optimize Reading and Homework Habits

Encourage good reading posture by ensuring children hold books or tablets at least 16 inches away from their eyes. Make sure they’re reading in well-lit environments—poor lighting can force the eyes to work harder, accelerating myopia progression. A dedicated, well-lit study space with an adjustable chair and desk can help create better reading habits.

Prioritizing Regular Eye Exams

Routine eye exams are one of the most effective ways to monitor and manage myopia, especially in children whose vision can change rapidly. Many parents in Renton may not realize that myopia progression can go unnoticed until a child starts struggling in school or sports. We recommend annual comprehensive eye exams to track vision changes, detect early signs of progression, and implement timely myopia management strategies.

The Importance of Myopia Management at OceanClear Eyecare

While lifestyle adjustments are a great start, myopia management goes beyond simply updating your child’s glasses prescription each year. The goal is to slow progression and reduce the risk of future eye health issues like retinal detachment, glaucoma, or macular degeneration.

One of the most effective solutions we offer at OceanClear Eyecare is MiSight® 1 day contact lenses. These FDA-approved lenses are specifically designed for children and have been proven to slow myopia progression by up to 59%. Unlike traditional glasses or contacts, MiSight lenses actively reshape how light enters the eye, helping to manage nearsightedness rather than just correcting it.

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam at OceanClear Eyecare Today

If your child’s prescription keeps increasing, it’s time to take action. Let’s work together to create a plan that keeps your child’s eyes healthy and strong.

Schedule your child’s eye exam at OceanClear Eyecare to find the right myopia management strategy for their needs. Visit our office in Renton, Washington, or call (425) 970-3230 to book an appointment today.