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As we age, our bodies go through many changes, and one area that often needs a bit of extra attention is our eyes. For those over 60, eye care becomes especially important as it helps maintain good vision and overall eye health. Whether you're noticing changes in your sight or not, it’s never too late to give your eyes the care they deserve. In this article, we’ll talk about common eye concerns for seniors and share some simple, family-friendly tips to help keep your eyes in top shape.<h3>Why Eye Care is Important as You Age</h3>Our eyes change over time, just like the rest of our body. While this is a natural part of aging, regular eye care can help prevent or manage issues that may arise, such as:<ul><li>Presbyopia: This is the difficulty in seeing close-up objects that usually starts in your 40s or 50s and becomes more noticeable with age.</li><li>Cataracts: A clouding of the eye's lens, cataracts are very common in people over 60 and can cause blurry vision.</li><li>Glaucoma: A condition caused by increased pressure in the eye, which can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss if untreated.</li><li>Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD): This affects the central part of your vision and can make reading or recognizing faces more difficult.</li><li>Dry Eyes: With age, our eyes may produce fewer tears, leading to dryness and irritation.</li></ul>Many retired people are much more active today than when they were working so it’s very important to try and keep your eyesight as good as possible especially to keep driving as long as possible, and doing whatever interests you have. As you get older good vision is also essential to prevent falls – a recent American study has shown that one in four adults with poor vision has recurrent falls, and half of adults with poor vision then limited their activity due to a fear of falling.The good news is, with regular check-ups and a few lifestyle adjustments, many of these conditions can be managed or even prevented and good vision maintained till late in life.<h3>Family-Friendly Tips for Healthy Eyes</h3>Whether you’re a grandparent, parent, or just someone who wants to look after yourself, eye care doesn’t have to be complicated. Let’s dive into some simple and practical tips that you and your loved ones can follow to keep your eyes healthy.1. Have Regular Eye Check-upsJust like getting your blood pressure or cholesterol checked, visiting your optometrist regularly is essential. Even if your vision seems fine, an annual eye exam can catch problems early before they become serious. Your optometrist will check for signs of cataracts, glaucoma, and other age-related eye conditions. Many practices offer advanced eye exams with extra screening using OCT 3D Tomography – these help pick up earlier signs of glaucoma and macular degeneration than using traditional tests.2. Eat a Healthy, Eye-Friendly DietA nutritious diet does more than just keep your waistline in check – it also keeps your eyes healthy! Foods rich in antioxidants, such as leafy green vegetables (like spinach and kale), carrots, and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon and tuna), are excellent for your eyes. Family meals can be a great time to incorporate these foods into your diet, ensuring everyone benefits.3. Stay Active and Manage Health ConditionsRegular physical activity helps improve circulation, which in turn can help your eyes stay healthy. Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can affect your vision if not managed properly, so maintaining an active lifestyle is key. You don't have to run marathons – even a daily walk with the family can make a difference.4. Protect Your Eyes from UV RaysJust like your skin, your eyes can be damaged by the sun’s UV rays. When you’re out and about with family, be sure to wear sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection. Not only will you look stylish, but you'll also protect your eyes from potential damage that can increase the risk of cataracts and AMD.5. Limit Screen TimeThis may sound like advice you give to your grandkids, but it applies to seniors too! Prolonged screen use (whether it's your computer, smartphone, or television) can lead to eye strain and discomfort. If you enjoy reading or watching TV, try following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This can help reduce eye strain.6. Keep Your Eyes MoisturizedDry eyes are a common issue for seniors, especially if you spend a lot of time in heated or air-conditioned environments. To combat dryness, use over-the-counter artificial tears or talk to your doctor about other treatments if needed. Drinking plenty of water and using a humidifier at home can also help keep your eyes moist.7. Quit SmokingIf you or a loved one smokes, quitting can have a big impact on eye health. Smoking increases the risk of developing cataracts, AMD, and other serious eye conditions. It’s never too late to quit, and your eyes (and the rest of your body) will thank you!<h3>Get the Whole Family Involved</h3>Caring for your eyes doesn’t have to be a solo effort – getting the whole family involved can make it easier and more enjoyable. Plan family meals rich in eye-healthy nutrients, schedule walks or light exercise together, and remind each other about annual eye exams. These activities not only help with eye health but also strengthen family bonds.<h3>When to See an Optometrist</h3>It’s always a good idea to check in with your optometrist if you notice any changes in your vision, such as:<ul><li>Sudden blurriness</li><li>Difficulty seeing at night</li><li>Frequent headaches</li><li>Double vision</li><li>Seeing flashes of light or "floaters"</li></ul>Your eye health is just as important as the rest of your body, so don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor if something feels off. If you notice any changes like these, you can have an emergency appointment free of charge under the NIPEARS scheme with participating optometrists.<h3>Conclusion: Enjoying Life with Healthy Eyes</h3>Looking after your eyes as you get older doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. By incorporating healthy habits into your daily routine, scheduling regular check-ups, and staying proactive, you can enjoy clear, sharp vision for many years to come. Remember, your eyes help you connect with the world – and they deserve all the love and care you give the rest of your body. So, grab those sunglasses, go for a walk with the family, and keep looking after those precious eyes!To book an advanced eye examination, book online or phone your local practice at <a target="_blank" rel="" href="http://mackeyopticians.com/branch-locator/">mackeyopticians.com/branch-locator/</a><h4>Also check out:</h4><a target="_blank" rel="" href="https://www.mackeyopticians.com/news/love-your-eyes/">Love your Eyes | Mackey Opticians</a>

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Eye Care for Seniors

With Halloween just around the corner we want you all to have only treats this year! So please be careful you don't get tricked when it comes to wearing costume cosmetic contact lenses!Mackey Opticians do not provide Halloween cosmetic contact lenses, and we would not recommend wearing them, unless you have purchased them through an optometrist who has fitted them for you and ensured they will not be doing any damage to your eyes.However, we understand at this time of year these lenses are very tempting to give your costumes that extra fear factor, so, if you do plan on wearing these lenses we would like to ensure you follow these contact lens wear and care steps to reduce the chances of anything frightening happening that could ruin your Halloween fun.DON’T! Use saline solution to wash or store your lenses:Saline solution, though sterile and safe for your eyes, does not sanitise your lenses effectively. Instead make sure to use a multipurpose contact lens solution, such as Opti-Free Puremoist solution, which is available to purchase in all Mackey Opticians branches. Solutions such as this will clean and disinfect the lenses and are also safe to store your lenses in, just be sure to empty the solutions from the case and add in new solutions each time.DO! Wash your hands before handling your lenses:Ensure to wash your hands with soap and water before inserting or removing your lenses. Avoid hand sanitiser at this step as this can dry out your lenses and cause irritation to your eyes.DON’T! Share contact lenses with anyone else:Avoid borrowing or wearing lenses if they are not yours, even if they are non-prescription lenses that have been disinfected previously. Wearing lenses that have been worn by someone else is extremely dangerous and can lead to severe damage or infections to your eyes.DO! Insert your lenses BEFORE applying any make-up:Putting in lenses before applying your make-up will lessen the risk of bacteria or debris getting trapped under your lenses that could cause infections. It will also help you see more clearly when applying the make-up if you use prescription lenses.DON’T! Sleep, shower, or go “bobbing for apples” with your contact lenses in:When wearing your contact lenses, it is best to avoid getting any water near your face or eyes. Water can contain chemicals like chlorine or bacteria that can both affect the quality of your lenses and more importantly the health of your eyes if trapped under a lens. As well as avoiding water it is particularly important NOT to sleep in your lenses as, without blinking to replace your tear film, contact lenses will dry our overnight and can be extremely painful and difficult to remove the next morning which in turn will cause a lot of damage to the surface of your eye.DO! Speak to an optometrist or doctor if anything goes wrong when wearing cosmetic lenses:If you wear your cosmetic lenses and something feels wrong or off, even if you have followed the above steps, make sure to speak with a professional right away. In Northern Ireland there is a scheme for sudden onset minor eye conditions called NI PEARS that will allow you to be seen under the NHS if you have any issues with your eyes. If you need to book a NI PEARS appointment, please contact your nearest Mackey Opticians branch and we will do our best to see you.If you like the idea of contact lenses, not just for Halloween, contact your nearest branch to book a very “unscary” contact lens fitting appointment.

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Avoid a fright this Halloween

National Eye Health Week 2024There are lots of simple things that you can do to help keep kids’ eyes healthy.Essential eye checksHaving regular sight tests, every two years, unless you’re advised otherwise by your optometrist, is a great place to start.Sight tests will ensure any problems such as childhood conditions like squint and amblyopia (lazy eye) or myopia (short- sightedness) are picked up early.The sooner problems are identified the better the treatment outcome.Remember sight tests are free on the NHS for all children under 16 years.Eat a rainbowEating a rainbow of colourful fruit and vegetables helps ensure young eyes get the nutrients they need to grow healthily.Foods like tomatoes, grapes and blueberries as well as fish, eggs and whole grains are packed with eye–friendly nutrients.Go out and playThere is evidence that spending two hours or more a day outdoors can reduce the risk of myopia, even if there is a family history of the condition.So, make sure children go out to play whatever the weather.Be safe in the sunIt’s also really important to protect kids’ eyes from the sun.When you’re young the lens at the front of your eye is really clear and lets more of the damaging sunlight in.Check kids’ sunglasses carry a UKCA or UV 400 mark to ensure they offer adequate protection.Take a breakChildren should be reminded to take regular breaks whenever they do any intense close work like scrolling on a phone or reading a book.Encourage them to look up at least every 20 minutes and relax their eyes for 20 seconds.Teenagers viewing smart phones should hold the screen at least 30cms away from their face to avoid eye strain.Tell-tale signsIt’s often difficult to tell if your child is having problems with their eyes but some tell-tale signs that there could be something wrong include struggling to recognise colours and shapes; not showing any interest in learning to read; complaining about headaches and sitting very close to the TVIf you recognise any of these symptoms you should arrange for your child to have a sight test.

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Keeping kids’ eyes healthy

National Eye Health Week 2024Half of all sight loss is avoidable, so it’s vital we're aware of the ‘red flags’ that could signal a threat to our vision, and know where to seek help to prevent irreversible vision impairment.Conditions like retinal detachment, severe forms of uveitis, certain types of glaucoma, as well as corneal abrasions and infection can all cause sudden and permanent sight loss.&nbsp;The warning signsAnybody suddenly experiencing the following symptoms should contact their local optician without delay:• A curtain, veil or shadow in your vision• Sudden sight loss or double vision• Acute redness in one or both eyes• Photophobia (extreme sensitivity to light)• Severe eye pain• Suddenly seeing lots of flashes or floaters (little dots or squiggles).&nbsp;For most, these symptoms will be caused by a minor condition that is easily treatable, however, it’s very important to rule out serious eye complaints that can lead to sudden and permanent vision loss, and these symptoms should be checked out within 48 hours and often on the same day if possible.The emergency eye examination will be free of charge under the NIPEARSs scheme (see below for more details)Urgent medical attention should be sought if you have a foreign body in your eye that you can’t flush out at home using an eye wash - for this you can try and contact us under NIPEARS but you may need to go to your local A&amp;E or Minor Injuries if they still exist in your area - especially if the foreign substance in your eye is alkali (caustic) which may require constant irrigation for up to 30 minutesTreating eye emergenciesMany of us think high street opticians only offer routine sight tests but more and more now provide a wide range of enhanced services, including same day NIPEARS appointments for urgent eye care issues. All Mackey Opticians practices offer NIPEARS although we don't always have an optometrist on-site every day and we will try to get you an appointment on the same day or within 48 hours at one of our practices.These services are free on the NHS, even if you don’t qualify for NHS sight tests.If you require medication to treat your condition the optometrist can often write a prescription for you there and then or refer you to hospital care, if necessary.Accessing the wide range of services available at community opticians helps reduce the burden on other primary care services such as GPs and ensures eye conditions are diagnosed and treated early to prevent avoidable sight loss.Further reading:<a target="_blank" rel="" href="https://www.mackeyopticians.com/news/emergency-eyecare-now-available-at-all-mackey-opticians/">Emergency Eyecare now available at ALL Mackey Opticians practices | Mackey Opticians</a>

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Could you the spot the signs of an eye emergency?

<hr>National Eye Health Week 2024New research launched to mark the start of National Eye Health Week (23-29 September) reveals a staggering 19 million Brits are putting their physical and mental health at risk by failing to have regular eye tests [1].Routine eye tests are essential health checks for the prevention of poor health. In addition to identifying problems with eyesight they can also detect a range of other ailments including high blood pressure (hypertension), raised cholesterol, heart disease, brain tumours and risk of stroke.Poor vision is linked to numerous chronic and life-limiting conditions [2]. A new study from Johns Hopkins University reveals up to one in five dementia cases are directly linked to eyesight issues [3].Even a relatively minor reduction in vision (6/12 – half way down an optometrist’s letter chart) is associated with a significant reduction in quality of life and increased risk of depression (3xrisk), falls (double risk) and early death (double risk)[4].David Cartwright, optometrist and chair of Eye Health UK urges everyone who hasn’t had an eye test in the last two years to book one and explains: “Sight-threatening eye disease and conditions like hypertension can present with no, or few, noticeable symptoms. If caught early though they can be treated, or successfully managed, before they become a problem.”David continues: High-street optometrists play a crucial role in improving health opportunities for all. As well as caring for the nation’s eye health and preventing avoidable sight loss [5], optometrists can direct people to get the help they need for a wide-range of illnesses, including the 400,000 adults in the UK estimated to be living with undiagnosed heart failure and 88,000 people living with undetected brain tumours [6].”Read <a target="_blank" rel="" href="https://www.visionmatters.org.uk/downloads/hugo-fairbanks-weston-brain-tumour-diagnosis.pdf">Hugo’s story</a> for a powerful account of how an eye examination led to the diagnosis and successful treatment of his brain tumour.People from low-income households, men, and people from minority ethnic backgrounds were most likely to have skipped a recent eye test, whilst 2.5 million over 65s admit they haven’t had their eyes checked in the last two years, as recommended.Fear of cost needn’t be a barrier to having an eye test. Sight tests are free on the NHS for more than 30 million Brits including children, over 60s and those on income-related benefits.David Cartwright explains: “NHS-funded provision means eye care services are accessible for all. Free sight tests and optical vouchers are available for many, including those on low incomes and people at increased risk of poor eye health due to age or medical history. People unable to leave home unaided are entitled to free domiciliary (at home) eye tests; whilst local ICBs (Integrated Care Boards) or local NHS area teams commission translation and interpretation services ensuring a patient’s language or communication skills are not barriers to eye care.”Eye Health UK’s research also highlights the impact poor eye health is having on our day-to-day lives. Around half (49%) of adults in the UK say that the quality of their vision affects their ability to do, or enjoy, daily activities like household chores, driving, reading and hobbies.As well as having regular eye tests, once every two years, unless advised otherwise by your optometrist, there are a number of other ways we can protect, or improve, our sight.Lifestyle habits have a significant impact on eye health regardless of genetic predisposition.&nbsp; Your diet, weight, activity levels and alcohol consumption can all affect your eye health.Protecting your eyes from the sun’s UV rays and not smoking will help keep your eyes and vision healthy.Multiple studies also show spending two hours+ a day outdoors can reduce the risk of myopia (short-sightedness), even if there is a family history of the condition.Explore the rest of the vision matters website for helpful advice and information on caring for your eyes.&nbsp;-------------------------------Footnotes[1] OnePoll survey of 2,000 Adults representative of the UK population conducted 6th to 10th September 2024 on behalf of Eye Health UK to mark National Eye Health Week (23-29 September 2024). Population estimated using UK data correct as at Jan 2024. Total UK population aged 18+ = 56.3 million. 36% have not had an eye test in last two years, 4% can’t remember last time they had an eye test. [2] Health problems with links to poor eye health include, but are not limited to: diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), stroke, cardiovascular disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. [3] <a target="_blank" rel="" href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaophthalmology￼[4]">https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaophthalmology [4]</a> <a target="_blank" rel="" href="https://www.bmj.com/content/340/bmj.c1711￼[5]">https://www.bmj.com/content/340/bmj.c1711 [5]</a> Half of all sight loss is avoidable. Source: Deloitte Access Economics (2017) Incidence and risk of sight loss and blindness in the UK Royal National Institute of Blind People [6] Source Heart Failure estimate = British Society for Heart Failure 2024. Source for Brain Tumour estimate The Brain Tumour Charity. Published: 23 September 2024

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Millions risk poorer health outcomes by skipping routine sight test

It's National Eye Health Week from 23rd to 29th September so we hope that you hear lots of information about how to look after your eyes - both from ourselves and also on social media etc. We'll be posting this week some of the stories in the news. You might have heard this morning on Radio One that 1/3rd of children worldwide are now short-sighted - we've advice on how to look after your child's eyes and try and prevent myopia (short-sightedness) or at least slow down any progression. Follow our blog to hear that<ul><li>a staggering 19 million Brits are putting their physical and mental health at risk by failing to have regular eye tests</li><li>Half of all sight loss is avoidable, so it’s vital we're aware of the ‘red flags’ that could signal a threat to our vision. Find ouit where to seek help to prevent irreversible vision impairment!</li><li>lots of simple things that you can do to help keep kids’ eyes healthy.</li></ul>and more to come...

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National Eye Health Week 2024

CUSTOMER NOTICEOur Woodstock Road branch is currently closed for renovations.While we give your practice a shiny new look, we apologise for any inconveniences this may cause.Our Holywood Arches branch on the Newtownards Road will be happy to answer any queries or provide any help you might need during this time.Please contact them on 02890739909.The Woodstock branch is set to re-open Tuesday the 6th&nbsp;of August, however it will be at a limited capacity while we get the store back into shape.Thank you for your understanding and hope to see you all again soon in our freshened-up practice!

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CUSTOMER NOTICE - Woodstock Rd Branch Closed for Renovations

Please be aware that over the coming week many of our branches will have differing opening hours.All of our branches will close on the 12th of July, however, every branch will vary on which other days they are closed after this. For your branches opening hours please see details below. Mackey Opticians Holywood Arches&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CLOSED&nbsp;&nbsp; 12th and 13thMackey Opticians Yorkgate&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CLOSED&nbsp;&nbsp; 12th and 13thMackey Opticians Belfast, Church Lane&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CLOSED from 4:30pm 11th, CLOSED 12th and 13thMackey Opticians Glen Road&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CLOSED from Saturday 6th - Tuesday 16thMackey Opticians Ormeau&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CLOSED&nbsp;&nbsp; 12th and 13thMackey Opticians Woodstock&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CLOSED&nbsp;&nbsp; 11th, 12th and 13thMackey Opticians Cookstown&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CLOSED&nbsp;&nbsp; 12th, 13th and 15thMackey Opticians Portadown&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CLOSED&nbsp;&nbsp; 12th, 13th and 15thMackey Opticians Newtownards&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CLOSED&nbsp;&nbsp; 12th, 13th and 15thMackey Opticians Bangor&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CLOSED&nbsp;&nbsp; 12th, 13th and 15th&nbsp;&nbsp;Mackey Opticians Holywood&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CLOSED&nbsp;&nbsp; 12th, 13th and 15thMackey Opticians Carrickfergus&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CLOSED&nbsp;&nbsp; 12th, 13th, 15th and 17thMackey Opticians Carnmoney&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CLOSED&nbsp;&nbsp; 11th, 12th and 13thMackey Opticians Donaghadee&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CLOSED&nbsp;&nbsp; 12th, 13th and 15th&nbsp;Should you need urgent advice during these closures, please contact your GP, an out of hours doctor or your nearest A&amp;E department.We hope all of our patients and staff can enjoy a well deserved break over the July holidays. &nbsp;

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July Holiday Closures

2024 is here and with it the chance to embrace new ways of living and implement new healthier habits.
New Year’s resolutions have existed for centuries and can be traced to the ancient Babylonians who are said to have been the first people to make New Year’s resolutions, some 4,000 years ago. Making subtle changes to your lifestyle can help improve your eye health and minimise your risk of developing common eye conditions in older age such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts.
<h4>1. Eat right for good sight</h4>
Eating a healthy balanced diet can reduce your risk of developing common eye conditions.&nbsp; Eye friendly nutrients found in many fruits and vegetables including spinach, red peppers, kale, leeks, avocado, peaches and blueberries can help to protect against age-related macular degeneration (AMD) – a condition that impairs the vision of more than 600,000 people in the UK and is the leading cause of blindness in the western world.
Cold water fish such as sardines, mackerel and tuna are all excellent sources of DHA and Omega-3 fatty acids, which provide structural support to cell membranes in the eye and are recommended for dry eye, the treatment of macular degeneration and general sight preservation.
Recent research has shown how eating fish just once a week can reduce your risk of developing early AMD by up to 40 per cent.
<h4>2. Exercise regularly</h4>
The eyes need oxygen to stay healthy and comfortable. Growing scientific evidence suggests that aerobic exercise can increase crucial oxygen supplies to the optic nerve and lower pressure in the eye.
Reducing intraocular ‘eye’ pressure can help control conditions such as glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Aerobic exercise can also prevent the progression of diabetes, which in severe cases can lead to diabetic retinopathy.
To gain any health benefit from exercise the Department of Health recommends doing 30 minutes exercise five days a week. Brisk walks, cycling and swimming are all excellent ways to reduce intraocular pressure.
Remember to consult your GP before commencing any new exercise programme.
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<h4>3. Get a good night’s sleep</h4>
A good night’s sleep can help keep your eyes feeling bright and refreshed. Lack of sleep and fatigue can lead to your eyes becoming sore, irritated, puffy, red and bloodshot.
A quick fix for relieving your eyes from any discomfort caused by lack of sleep is to place a cold compress – wet tea bags, slices of cucumber or a cold wet facecloth – over your eyes then lie back and relax for ten minutes.
<h4>4. Don’t smoke</h4>
Smokers have a significantly higher risk of eye disease than non-smokers. According to research published by the RNIB smokers are twice as likely to lose their sight in later life than non-smokers.
Tobacco chemicals damage the blood vessels behind your eyes and increase your risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
However, the good news is that if you quit smoking your risk of developing AMD begins to decline.
Smoking is also associated with other eye diseases including cataracts.
<h4>5. Protect your eyes</h4>
According to the British Safety Council, nearly a quarter of a million of us will injure our eyes this year with almost 50 per cent of these injuries occurring because of accidents in the home.
A staggering 20,000 eye accidents a year – one every 25 minutes! – are as a direct result of DIY.
Whilst sport is now the biggest cause of hospital admission for serious eye injuries in the UK – one in three squash players will suffer some form of eye injury.
Using inexpensive safety goggles to protect your eyes when you’re in a situation that poses a risk to your eyes can help prevent injury and keep your eyes healthy.
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<h4>6. Limit the amount of alcohol that you drink</h4>
Drinking too much alcohol interferes with your liver functions reducing the levels of glutathione an efficient antioxidant that can help protect against common eye disease.
The Department of Health advises that men should not drink more than three to four units of alcohol per day, and women should drink no more than two to three units of alcohol per day.
<h4>7. Protect your eyes against the damaging affects of UV light</h4>
Excessive exposure to the sun’s UV rays can lead to a sunburn-like condition called photokeratitis. This can be extremely painful and make your eyes red, swollen and watery. The symptoms of photokeratitis – an inflammation of the outer layer of the cornea, typically occur after 6 – 12 hours exposure and will normally clear up quickly causing no permanent damage to the eye.
Believe it or not, the most common skiing injury is not to legs or arms – but to eyes!
It’s not flailing ski sticks that pose the threat either, but high levels of ultra-violet (UV) light which are highest when the atmosphere is very clear – such as on the ski slopes and the problem is made worse by snow which reflects light. Be smart and wear quality sunglasses or goggles.
However, the damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) are cumulative and over a long period your risk of developing cataracts and other age-related conditions increases significantly.
By the age of 18 more than half-a-lifetime’s worth of UV light will have been absorbed by a child’s eyes so it’s never too early to start protecting your eyes.
Sunglasses protect our eyes from UV light, which can be harmful to the eye, especially for prolonged periods, or as an accumulation over years of exposure. By wearing sunglasses, not only will you protect the fragile skin around your eyes (no thank you, crows feet!), but your eyes too. UV light is still present even on cloudy days, so pick a pair of sunglasses that you love and wear them regularly.
Ensure that your sunglasses filter AT LEAST 99 per cent of UVA and UVB light and look out for the CE or BS EN 1836:1997 marks when choosing your sunglasses. Sunglasses are available in prescription if you wear glasses – and most prescriptions can be made for wrapped sports-style sunglasses and also polarised including Oakley and RayBans. &nbsp;
Many of our spectacle lenses are treated with a coating or have a material built in to absorb 100% of harmful UV rays – you can put an additional coating on them to ensure this
Please ask us for advice.
<img src="/images/news/News/Night_Lenses/freedom_sailing.jpg" alt="freedom sailing" width="900" height="675" />
<h4>8. Watch your weight and maintain a healthy BMI</h4>
A recent review of various research publications looked at links between various measures of obesity – BMI (Body Mass Index), WC (Waist Circumference), WHR (Waist to Hip Ratio) – and age-related eye disease.
BMI-defined obesity was linked with increases in cataract, age-related-macula degeneration (ARMD) and diabetic retinopathy in Western populations. WC-defined obesity was associated with increased glaucoma in non-Western people. WHR-defined obesity was linked with progression of ARMD in tow Western studies.
Maintaining a healthy weight has been shown to preserve macular pigment density which, in turn, helps to protect the retina against the breakdown of cells and the onset of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). People with higher BMI indexes tend to have low pigment density and therefore are at greater risk of AMD. Loss of weight has been shown to increase levels of lutein and zeaxanthin in the blood – two vitamins that are essential for macula health.
Damage to blood vessels in the eye caused by excess body weight has also been linked to the onset of glaucoma and diabetes.
Body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to both adult men and women. To calculate your BMI yourself, work out your height in metres your weight in kilograms. Divide your weight by your height squared. &nbsp;
So, if you are 1.5m tall and weigh 60kg. The calculation would be: 1.6 x 1.6 = 2.25. BMI would be 60 divided by 2.25 = 26.66. Then check the results below to see where you come.
You are considered underweight if your BMI is equal to or less than 18.5
You are considered normal weight if your BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9
You are considered overweight if your BMI is between 25 and 29.9
You are considered obese if your BMI is 30 or greater
Waist circumference (WC) is a measure of abdominal obesity that indicates the amount of fat around the waist. Abdominal obesity is associated with higher risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic diseases. The risk increases with a WC that is greater than 35 inches for women or 40 inches for men, or 80 cm for women or 94 cm for men. A WC greater than 88 cm for women or 102 cm for men is considered substantially increased risk.
The waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is calculated by dividing your waist circumference by your hip circumference. According to the NHS, if your waist is 94cm (37in) or more for men, or 80cm (31.5in) or more for women, this is considered an increased health risk, regardless of your height or BMI. In women, a WHR greater than 0.85 is associated with greater than average risk, while in men, a WHR greater than 1.00 is associated with greater than average risk.
Please see more information about these measures at <a href="https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/obesity/">Obesity - NHS (www.nhs.uk)</a> and seek advice from your GP. You can download the free NHS Weight Loss Plan at <a href="https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/lose-weight/">Lose weight - Better Health - NHS (www.nhs.uk)</a>
<img src="/images/news/News/Night_Lenses/freedom_open_water_swimming.jpg" alt="freedom open water swimming" width="900" height="675" />
<h4>9. Drink plenty of water</h4>
The human body is made up of 70 per cent water. Water is essential to the normal working of the body and for keeping your eyes healthy. Dehydration can lead to dry, sore and irritated eyes. The Food Standards Agency recommends that you drink approximately 1.2 litres (6-8 glasses) of water every day and more when you exercise or if the weather is hot.
<h4>10. Talk to your family about their eye health</h4>
Make eye health part of your conversations about the family’s medical history, as some eye conditions, like Glaucoma, can be hereditary.
A regular, thorough eye exam will enable your optician be able to check your eye pressure and monitor any changes to the health of your eyes since your last visit..
<img src="/images/news/News/Night_Lenses/freedom_sandcastle.jpg" alt="freedom sandcastle" width="900" height="675" />
<h4>11. Practice healthy hand hygiene</h4>
Simple yet effective in protecting you from all kinds of nasties – including eye infections – the health benefits of washing hands regularly should not be overlooked. Especially important if you are a contact lens wearer, ensure your hands are clean before handling lenses or rubbing or touching your eye area.
<h4>12. Reduce screen time</h4>
In our always-on culture, many of us spend a large portion of our days staring at screens. Too much screen time can lead to eye strain, with symptoms such as blurred vision, headaches and burning eye causing discomfort. To avoid eye strain, take regular breaks away from your computer or mobile device. Encourage the kids to look away from their devices and follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds!
<h4>13. Daydream using the 20/20/20 rule</h4>
Daydreaming is now expressly permitted. Active breaks are essential as eyes are strained by constant near work on the computer and other screens. The 20-20-20 rule is an easy-to-remember exercise for the eyes: Look away from the screen every 20 minutes and focus on something at least 20 feet (or 6 meters) away for 20 seconds. So, sit back and let your gaze wander into the distance.
<h4>14. Don't forget to blink</h4>
Blinking happens quite automatically and has a practical function. Our eyelids distribute tear fluid on the surface of the eye every time we blink to keep it moist and prevent the cornea from drying out. In daily life, we blink about 15 to 20 times per minute. When we focus on the computer or television, we blink less frequently. Burning, itching, or dry eyes are often the result. Blinking ten times in succession can provide relief.
<h4>15. Adequate lighting (especially in the home office)</h4>
Eyes get tired very quickly if they constantly have to compensate for contrasts. That's why it's crucial to have sufficient lighting at home, at work, and in all other instances where your eyes may be under some sort of strain, such as when reading in bed. A classic table or bedside lamp with a small light source looks pretty but usually increases the contrast. It is better to use lighting solutions that distribute sufficiently bright light throughout the room. If working from home, workstations should be ideally located in front of a window so the eyes can wander into the distance.
<h4>16. Fresh air</h4>
Getting out and enjoying the fresh air by walking is essential for physical fitness and good, healthy vision. A walk can help relax overtired eyes. If a short exercise session outdoors is not possible, don't forget to ventilate the room! Especially in the cold season, many rooms are also overheated and lack humidity.
<img src="/images/news/News/Night_Lenses/freedom_spa.jpg" alt="freedom spa" width="900" height="675" />
<h4>17. Don't use digital devices before going to bed</h4>
There’s a well-known suspicion that people exposed to blue light from screens and monitors just before bed have trouble falling asleep or complain of poor sleep quality. A part of blue light impacts our circadian rhythm, synchronizing the biological clock and controlling the wake-sleep cycle. The light intensity of smartphones and digital devices influences sleep patterns. Before going to bed, simply set your smartphone and tablet aside in time.
<h4>18. Blue lens coatings</h4>
Although studies are mixed as to whether long term artificial blue light from LEDs and smartphone screens can cause any eye diseases such as ARMD or cataract, it can definitely have an impact on our visual comfort, wellbeing, and our wake-sleep cycle.
Blue light causes greater “scatter” of light with increased perception of glare, subjective reduction of contrast and blurred vision. Longitudinal chromatic distortion (LCD) causes greater need for&nbsp; accommodation (focusing) changes and resulting irritation.
Special glasses are available for video gamers and esport players – with a huge increase in sales after Covid 2020 due to the many hours sat in front of such screens. The same blue lens coatings are available on your spectacle lenses if you spend a lot of time on LED or smart phone screens.
Which also brings us back to resolutions 9 to 16 above.
<h4>19. Have regular eye examinations</h4>
It is recommended that you have an eye examination once every two years unless advised otherwise by your optometrist. An eye examination will not only detect problems with your vision, but it can also uncover a number of other underlying health problems:
Diabetes
Cataracts
Macular degeneration
High blood pressure
Glaucoma
In very rare cases, even tumours.
Book an eye test if you notice any changes to your eyesight or if you are experiencing any symptoms that concern you. Your optician can send you a reminder when you are due for your next check-up so that you don’t forget to make an appointment.
<h4>20. Push back against myopia</h4>
There has been a huge increase in myopia over the last 50 years and especially in the last 10 years with increasing time spent indoors and in front of screens etc. As well as the visual difficulties and need to wear glasses, myopia – in particular high myopia over 5 dioptres – has been linked to increased ARMD, glaucoma, cataract, and retinal detachment.
If you are myopic, it is more important to have very regular eye examinations and keep your prescription up to date as well as spend as much time outside as possible – 15 hours per week or 3 hours every week day is recommended.
There are now a number of relatively new products to help reduce the progression of your myopia:
<ul>
<li><a href="/index.php/contact-lenes/night-lenses">“Night lenses” - see our page</a></li>
<li><a href="/index.php/eyecare/miyosmart">special spectacle lenses (“MiyoSmart”)</a></li>
<li>Daily soft contact lenses (“MySight”)</li>
</ul>
All of these should ideally be started as early as possible.
<a href="/index.php/eyecare/myopia-management">Please ask us for advice about Myopia Management.</a>
<img src="/images/news/News/Night_Lenses/MiyoSmart_postcard.jpg" alt="MiyoSmart postcard" width="900" height="637" />
&nbsp;

New Years Resolutions - 20 tips for better eyes in 2024 

Merry Christmas from all of us at Mackey Opticians.
We hope that you have a fantastic few days off (or longer) with friends and family and we would like to wish you all the best for the new year.
Most of our practices will be open over the festive period and we still have eye examination appointments available at most. Please use the on-line booking system or give your local practice a call to make an appointment.&nbsp;
<h4>Christmas Opening Hours</h4>
Christmas Day 25th - Closed
Boxing day 26th - Closed
Wednesday 27th - Closed
Thursday &nbsp;28th - Open
Friday 29th - Open
Saturday 30th - Open
New Years Day 1st - Closed
Tuesday 2nd - Closed
Wednesday 3rd - Open as normal&nbsp;
Please note that our Carnmoney&nbsp; practice will be closed throughout until Thursday 4th January 2024. Bangor closed Saturday 30th December.&nbsp;
Happy New Year!!
Please note that if you have a very urgent eye problem, please contact your local accident and emergency department - they can then refer to Eye Casualty at the RVH or Altnagelvin if necessary.
NIPEARS is available when our practices are open as above.
&nbsp;<img src="/images/news/6865_Mackey_Christmas_card_.png" alt="6865 Mackey Christmas card " style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />

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