Vision health starts with small, daily choices that add up over time. At Livermore Optometry Group, we help patients in Livermore Optometry Group protect their eyes with personalized eye care and services like comprehensive eye exams.
From screen time habits to sun protection, a few simple changes can make a lasting difference. Your vision deserves thoughtful, everyday care.
Why Caring for Your Vision Matters in 2026
Clear vision isn’t just about seeing well, it’s about living well. In a community like ours, where screen time is high, the sun is intense, and the pace is fast, it’s easy to overlook the impact that everyday habits have on your eye health.
Vision problems don’t just affect older adults. From digital eye strain in office workers to increased myopia in children, more people are facing eye conditions earlier in life. Unchecked eye diseases like diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, or glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss, but many of these can be managed with early detection and healthy routines.
That’s why building good habits now is one of the smartest moves you can make for your future self.
Top 6 Vision Health Tips for 2026
If you're wondering how to take care of your eyes in a way that fits your lifestyle, the following habits are simple to adopt and work for patients of all ages, from busy professionals and parents to older adults.
1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule When Using Screens
Staring at screens all day strains your eyes. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This gives your eyes time to relax and can help reduce digital eye strain.
2. Protect Your Eyes from the Sun
Wear sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays. In sunny Livermore Optometry Group, California, this is more than just a comfort; it’s a crucial step in preventing cataracts and other sun-related eye conditions.
3. Wash Your Hands Before Touching Your Eyes
One of the simplest eye hygiene habits is also one of the most overlooked. Clean hands reduce your risk of infections, such as conjunctivitis, and are especially important for contact lens wearers.
4. Eat Foods That Support Eye Health
A balanced diet is essential for maintaining strong vision and reducing your risk of age-related eye conditions like macular degeneration. Try adding the following to your meals:
- Dark leafy greens like spinach and kale (rich in lutein and zeaxanthin)
- Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and flaxseed
- Citrus fruits and berries, packed with vitamin C
- Nuts and seeds for vitamin E
- Eggs and carrots for vitamin A and zinc
- Sweet potatoes and red peppers, also high in antioxidants
These foods support your retina, strengthen your cornea, and help prevent eye inflammation.
5. Stay on Top of Health Conditions
Your eyes are connected to your overall health. Conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes can increase your risk of diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and vision loss. Managing these eye conditions through medication, diet, and regular medical care also protects your eyes.
6. Keep Your Weight in a Healthy Range
Being overweight raises your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which is a leading cause of diabetic eye diseases. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and regular movement can help reduce your risk of vision problems later in life.
Get Eye Care in Livermore Optometry Group That Puts You First
At Livermore Optometry Group, we care for your eyes the same way we’d care for our own families. Whether you're managing dry eyes, wearing daily contact lenses, or navigating age-related vision changes, our team offers practical support tailored to your lifestyle.
Book your comprehensive eye exam or contact lens fitting in Livermore Optometry Group, and we will help you take care of your vision for 2026 and beyond.
Vision Health FAQs
When should I be concerned about vision problems?
If you notice blurred vision, eye pain, frequent headaches, trouble seeing at night, or changes in how colors appear, schedule an eye exam. These symptoms could signal several eye conditions, including dry eye, astigmatism, and early signs of glaucoma or macular degeneration.
Can contact lenses cause eye problems?
Wearing contact lenses safely requires proper hygiene, storage, and replacement. Issues such as eye irritation, dryness, or infection can occur if lenses are not cleaned properly or worn beyond their intended use. Always follow your optometrist’s instructions to keep your eyes healthy.
Is it normal for my vision to change as I get older?
Yes, many people experience changes in their vision starting in their 40s or 50s. Common age-related issues include presbyopia (trouble focusing up close), dry eye, and increased risk of eye diseases. Regular eye exams help catch these changes early so they can be managed effectively.