Good vision can be an important component in maintaining an excellent quality of life. Once you reach your golden years, you may finally have the time to tackle the reading material that has been on your wish list for years. Whether the information is about preferred hobbies, late-breaking world news, or the classics, or whether it comes to you in book, newspaper, or e-reader form, reading is a hobby that many seniors enjoy, and getting the most from the experience by incorporating effective reading techniques can bring you satisfaction and happiness.
Effective Reading Techniques
According to Michigan State University, using the “20/20/20″ reading technique is an effective way to avoid vision problems from eyestrain. This method involves staring at an object about 20 feet away once every 20 minutes you spend readings. Do this for at least 20 seconds to help relax your eyes and keep them feeling fresh. Another tip is to avoid direct lighting because it often causes a glare on the book or other reading material. This causes your pupils to contract to compensate for the brightness. Indirect lighting from an overhead light or a nearby lamp is more soothing to your eyes. Try not to bend your head down to read. If it is uncomfortable to hold the paper or book up for long periods, look into purchasing a book stand.
Other Tricks to Avoid Straining Your Eyes
Use an eReader to help keep your eyes feeling comfortable, particularly when reading for long periods. This gadget allows you to adjust the brightness, font, and text size so that you don’t strain your eyes. Visit the large print section of your library. Often they have classics and other types of literature in large text that makes the print easier to read. This is particularly helpful if you are nearsighted or wear corrective lenses.
Keeping Your Eyes Healthy
All About Vision suggests that you have an eye exam at least every other year and more often if you experience vision problems. It is also important to have regular physicals. The doctor can check for diseases that may affect your vision over time, such as hypertension and diabetes. Wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful UV light, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet are also effective ways to ensure that your vision stays sharp as you age.
Keeping your eyes feeling fresh is not difficult if you get into the habit of protecting your eyes by using proper reading techniques. If you start noticing changes in your vision, it’s important to see your eye doctor immediately. Some trouble signs to look for are hazy vision, double vision, and difficulty seeing in low light conditions. Healthy eyes ensure that you see clearly and enable you to relish the leisure time that you longed for in your youth.
