Young Adults, Living Better
No one ever imagined that when the coronavirus hit, we’d be sheltering in place for months on end, wearing masks all the time, and that the schools would shut down and move to online learning.
Teens were already using their computers for homework, on their phones for hours at a time, spending time gaming after school and on the weekends, and socializing daily online. This is how they have learned to communicate with the world. They spend most of their waking hours looking at screens. Homework is now completed online only. What parents need to realize is that this affects their eyes. As a result of so many hours spent staring at screens, teens and young adults have developed dry eyes. People who use digital devices suffer more from meibomian gland dysfunction or MGD (which is a deficiency in the oil layer) than others. Fortunately, at 20/20 Dry Eye Spa, we can treat teens and young adults, so schedule an appointment for an evaluation and to set up a treatment plan.
Social distancing has forced teens and young adults to find other ways to socialize. They maintain their friendships through screens. They stay
connected with peers through gaming and social media. Hours are still being spent on the mobile devices.
College for young adults is no longer packing up their belongings and relocating to their new college or university. Many students are attending their courses online; screen-based learning is the new normal. While earning a degree online isn’t a completely new concept, not having the choice to attend in-person is. Intense, long periods of computer time without breaks and not having in-person classroom instruction, lead to excessive screen time, which puts a strain on their vision and can also cause dry eyes. If left untreated, there is a potential for serious vision problems. It is important to recognize the symptoms, address the condition and seek treatment. Contact 20/20 Dry Eye Spa today.
Teens and young adults enjoy online shopping, online socializing, binge watching their favorite movies and shows, and they complete their assignments on digital devices. They need to be reminded to take frequent breaks, use the 20-20-20 rule, and to practice proper ergonomics when using technology. Since they will never cut down on their screen time, making sure they get up and away from their screens is important. Don’t forget they also need sleep! They can rest their eyes and their minds.
Dry eyes are uncomfortable and can impact their vision. Everyday activities can become difficult, decreasing their quality of life. Recognizing the symptoms of dry eyes and seeking treatment is vital, because it can lead to serious vision problems. So, if you suspect your teen or young adult is suffering from dry eye, contact 20/20 Dry Eye Spa today!