August 2020 web (with links)

My Child Needs Eyeglasses
by Mike Snell Optical Director, Eye Surgeons Associates
Discovering your child needs
eyeglasses can initially be an
alarming experience for parents.
Anxiety and emotions of surprise,
confusion, disappointment, and
even guilt can immediately ignite
an array of questions: Why didn’t I
notice before now? How long have
they been struggling? What type
of eyeglasses should I get for my
child? Is my child going to wear
the eyeglasses I get for them?
First and foremost, it is
important that you, remain positive
and encouraging and to focus on
the facts: 1. A vision need has
been determined and 2. There is
a solution. Then, don’t worry, an
experienced optician can provide
answers to many questions and
concerns, as they guide you and
your child through the eyeglass
selection process.
Today’s frame selections for
children can accommodate a variety
of needs. There are an assortment
of styles, colors and brands
to select from, some favorites
include: Nike, Miraflex, Ray-Ban,
Guess, Timberland, Skechers,
and SPECS4US (designed to
accommodate and fit the features
of children with Down Syndrome,
as well as, other individuals with
unique facial features). Advances in
frame technology provide excellent
durability featuring not only flexible
hinges but even flexible metal
and other materials throughout
the frame. Lens technology has
greatly advanced from heavy and
less safe glass lenses, to plastic
lenses, to using polycarbonate
lenses. Polycarbonate lenses are
today’s lens material of choice for
children’s eyeglasses. They are
approximately 30% thinner and
lighter weight than regular plastic
lenses; making the eyeglasses
much more comfortable for your
child to wear. Polycarbonate
lenses are also extremely impact
resistant and have a natural UV
filter in the material.
In addition to increased levels
of eye fatigue, new studies show
people are experiencing increased
exposure to harmful blue light
from LED computer, video game
and smartphone screens. Plus,
the U.S. and other parts of the
world have initiated the phase
out of incandescent light bulbs
in favor of more energy-efficient
luminescent sources (fluorescent
bulbs, LEDs) and will experience
even greater exposure to blue
light. Extensive research has found
that blue light impairs sleep. The
bright light tricks the brain into
thinking it is still light outside and
the production of melatonin, which
aids sleep, occurs in the dark. Lack
of sleep can cause an increase in
hyperactivity and trouble focusing
on tasks, conditions that mirror
ADHD. Blue light may also be a risk
factor for AMD. Anti-reflective lens
technology is highly recommended
as it significantly reduces eye
fatigue and strain caused from
glare and reflection on your child’s
lenses. To help reduce the risk of
blue light, in addition to shutting
down the video games an hour
before bed, recent lens technology
has been developed to filter out
this harmful blue light.
Experienced opticians will
adjust your child’s glasses for
proper fit when they are dispensed
and as often as needed thereafter.
As a kid who grew up wearing
glasses, I recall recess and gym
class being particularly hard
on my eyeglasses. You should
probably be prepared for a similar
experience with your child. Today’s
eyeglasses are generally very
durable and able to be adjusted as
needed. It is important to maintain
your child’s eyeglasses to ensure
your child’s best vision and their
continued compliance in wearing
the eyeglasses. And ask about
extended warranty or protection
plans, they may be worth the
investment.
Optician’s will also provide
guidance and recommendations
to accommodate your child’s
special vision needs including
sports eyeglasses and sunglasses.
Sunglasses that block 99-100% of
UV-A and UV-B rays, can protect
eyes just like sunscreen can
prevent sunburn on skin.
Finally, positive parent and
teacher encouragement combined
with the noted vision improvement
are generally sufficient for your
child to be compliant in wearing
their eyeglasses. So while there
may be an adjustment period,
the improved vision your child
experiences will be rewarding to
both you and them.
Mike Snell has 30 years of Optical experience
and is also Eye Surgeon’s Chief Administrative
Officer. He is an American Board of Opticianry-
Certified Optician and a certified professional coder.
The material contained in this article is for
informational purposes only and is not intended
to be a substitute for professional medical advice,
diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of
your physician or other qualified health care provider.
12 August 2020 I QC Family Focus