NEW research has found the younger generation is spending three times the amount on screens as recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Generation Alpha is spending an average of 3.5 hours per day on screens both at home and at school which could potentially impact their eye health and increase chances of lifelong vision and learning issues.
The research also revealed parents and teachers were not confident in best prevention techniques to avoid vision damage.
Optometrists in Mount Gambier/Berrin are now calling on local parents and teachers to employ safer screen practices, including limiting up-close tasks, taking regular screen breaks and regular eye tests.
Children are also being diagnosed with vision problems younger than ever before with three eye health tests now considered an essential element of the back to school routine.
In Mount Gambier/Berrin there are over 2400 primary school aged children who could be at risk of vision issues and may not have had a regular eye test.
WHO estimates 52 per cent of the global population will have short sightedness by 2050 with an alarming spike amongst children.
The research – run by Specsavers – found 90 per cent of primary school teachers say they have witnessed signs of eye strain in their students such as rubbing eyes, headaches, neck aches, blurry vision and not wanting to read aloud.
Mount Gambier/Berrin Specsavers optometrist Erica Johnston said while short sightedness was typically successfully managed with prescription lenses, if left undiagnosed it could impact day-to-day life.
“As Optometrists, we like to encourage parents, carers and teachers to ensure their children have their first eye test before starting school to detect and correct or manage any issues, so they don’t go untreated,” Ms Johnston said.
“Children’s eyes are still developing during their schooling years, and they can’t always tell you if they may not be able to see properly.
“If your child complains about headaches, blurred vision, trouble focusing or any other issues with their eyes, I recommend booking an appointment with an Optometrist immediately rather than waiting until their next check-up.”
Ms Johnston also said there were a number of tips and tricks to prevent further eye strain.
These tips include following the 20-20-20 rule which means every 20 minutes remind children to shift their eyes to look at an object at least 20 metres away for at least 20 seconds.
Other tips also include taking breaks outside and encouraging outside play with research showing spending two hours outdoors was a protective factor during daylight hours for children developing short-sightedness.
Reminding children to blink is also recommended and keeping water close by.
Parents are also encouraged to bring their children in for an eye test and keep monitoring screen time.
