People in Barnsley are being encouraged to make eye health part of their everyday self-care routine, as an independent optician highlights the importance of looking after our eyes during National Eye Health Week.

Tracey Plummer, practice manager at C A Raison Opticians in Cheapside, Barnsley, is supporting the campaign, which takes place from 21–27 September. This year's focus includes a 'Self-care Fr-eye-day' theme and an 'Ageing Eyes' campaign highlighting the importance of eye health as people get older.

Our eyes are something many of us take for granted, but looking after them should be just as much a part of our everyday health routine as eating well, exercising and looking after our general wellbeing.

Tracey said the week is a good opportunity to remind people of simple steps they can take to protect their sight, including having regular sight tests, eating a healthy diet, protecting eyes from the sun and not smoking.

According to National Eye Health Week organisers, more than two million people in the UK are living with sight loss severe enough to have a significant impact on their daily lives, with half of this sight loss considered avoidable. A sight test can also detect early signs of eye conditions such as glaucoma, as well as signs of other health problems.

Simple steps to look after your eyes

  • Have regular sight tests – at least every two years, unless your optometrist advises more frequently
  • Eat well – a healthy, balanced diet including fruit, vegetables, fish and wholegrains can help support healthy eyes
  • Stay active – regular physical activity is part of maintaining good overall health, including eye health
  • Don't smoke – smoking can increase the risk of a number of eye conditions
  • Protect your eyes from the sun – take care to protect your eyes from damaging UV rays when the UV Index is 3 or above
  • Give your eyes a break – particularly if you spend long periods looking at screens or doing close work

Good vision plays such an important role in our independence and quality of life, particularly as we get older. If you notice a change in your vision, whether that's blurred vision, difficulty seeing in low light, changes in your peripheral vision or anything else that concerns you, don't ignore it. We are here to help.

Tracey added that changes in vision are not necessarily a normal part of getting older, and regular eye examinations can help identify problems at an early stage, sometimes before changes are noticed.

For more information or to book an appointment, visit www.bookaneyetest.co.uk