As home and office space merged during the pandemic, many people spent more time in front of screens. Since March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month, here are tips on how to create a comfortable work environment at home to avoid digital eye strain.
- Make taking breaks a habit. Practicing the 20-20-20 rule will help you remember to blink. Set a timer on your phone or watch to remind you to look 20 feet away every 20 minutes for 20 seconds.
- Practice eye ergonomics. Sit 18 to 25 inches away from your computer screen, about arm’s length. Adjust screen brightness and contrast so that it feels comfortable. Position the screen so your eyes gaze slightly downward.
- Use artificial tears. Over the counter eye drops will help keep your eyes moist and relieve the discomfort of dry eye.
- Consider a humidifier. A humidifier will add moisture to the air and minimize dry eye. This is especially good for people who live in cold areas and use heaters often.
- Consider computer glasses. If you have trouble seeing your screen, ask your doctor about computer glasses, which are specifically designed for focusing on computer screens.
- Skip the blue light-blocking glasses. The American Academy of Ophthalmology does not recommend blue light-blocking glasses because there is no scientific evidence that blue light coming from a computer screen causes digital eye strain or damages the eye.
