Today, 1 in 4 children has an undiagnosed vision problem. The chances of developing a vision problem are greater if there is a history of eyesight problems in your family. Many children, however, with no such family history encounter a troublesome vision issue. Why?
Children are now spending an alarming amount of time in front of screens — televisions, smartphone, tablet, computer, videogame consoles, etc. Optometrists warn that heavy computer usage is known to increase your chances of developing blurry and double vision. Loss of vision is not to be taken lightly and the individuals who are most affected are children.
Vision Problems Contribute to Poor Grades and Behavior
Teachers and parents often struggle trying to understand why a child is not doing well in school or why they are acting out in the classroom and at home. Many times the simple explanation is that the child cannot read the blackboard or even the pages in front of them. This frustrating situation can easily spiral out of control if the underlying problem is not addressed.
Did you know that according to one study:
- The risk of a child failing one grad is more than 3 times higher for children who have worse than 20/20 vision.
- In fact, 80% of what children learn is acquired though visual processing. The risk of a child failing one grad is more than 3 times higher for children who have worse than 20/20 vision.
- Children’s eyes are also more susceptible to UV damage with 80% of all UV exposure occurring before the age of 18. – https://essilorusa.com/newsroom/shocking-vision-statistics
Maintain Your Child’s Eyesight Using Vision Plans and Insurance
It is impossible to gauge when a child’s vision will begin to deteriorate, if at all, but factors such as heredity and increased exposure to computer and television screens may speed up the process. In order to properly monitor the health of your children’s eyes, it is wise to plan a vision check-up each year.
Vision plans generally cover or provide discounts on the following products and services:
- Annual eye examinations
- Eyeglass frames
- Eyeglass lenses (including lens coatings and enhancements)
- Contact lenses
- Discounted rates for LASIK and PRK
Without an employer health insurance plan, parents might want to consider supplemental vision insurance. We accept a variety of insurances including NEPA CHIP, a statewide program that provides overall health insurance for children. There are other avenues available as well that you can review by clicking here.
In many cases, children are unaware that their eyesight is deteriorating. The untreated eye problem can result in learning and behavioral problems that negatively affect a child’s life. With proper attention to vision care, including regular check-ups, unforeseen problems can be avoided.
