5 Eye Care Tips to Help Families Save Money on Vision Care 

Last updated on July 10th, 2024 at 07:03 pm

Most of us know how important it is to stick to a budget. When you create your household budget, medical costs will inevitably come into the equation. As you plan for health-related expenses like routine checkups and essential medications, remember to also take medical inflation into account so you’re not caught off guard.

Since unexpected medical bills can quickly strain your finances, it’s important to regularly review your health insurance coverage and overall budget so you can make adjusts based on your family’s changing needs.

That said, another smart way to reduce healthcare costs is to prioritize your health and well-being in the first place. That means getting your yearly checkups, appropriate medical screenings (like mammograms and colonoscopies, for example), regular dental checkups and cleanings, and having regular vision and hearing screenings.

Today, we’re going to discuss eye care. This is an often-overlooked part of your overall health, but vision problems are common and affect all ages. So, keep reading for some tips to help you save money on the rising costs of vision care.

A look at vision care costs

Before diving into eye care tips, it helps to understand the state of vision care costs in the current economy. An article in Forbes notes that a routine eye exam costs an average of $184 without insurance. 

Although major retailers with optical clinics, like Target, Costco, and Walmart offer eye exams at more affordable prices, as low as $70 to 75, it can be much more expensive if you have a vision condition that requires more than the usual type of eye exam (one that includes a visual acuity test, eye muscle test, and refraction assessment).

And, vision care expenses can quickly add up if you need progressive lenses or corrective surgery for eye conditions like glaucoma ($1,000 to $4,000).

Take better care of your eyes with these tips

Shield your eyes from the sun

The sun’s ultraviolet rays can contribute to the development of eye disorders like cataracts, so wearing sunglasses that offer protection against both UVA and UVB rays is a must to prevent vision damage.

If you have a vision impairment, like myopia or age-related presbyopia, invest in prescription sunglasses to correct your vision without compromising sun safety. Many top brands, like the ever-popular Ray-Ban, among others, offer prescription options in their classic styles, including the Original Wayfarer. Nowadays, there’s no reason to sacrifice style when it comes to keeping your eyes healthy.

Spend time outdoors

Research shows that the alarming rise of myopia among children is associated with increased screen time and the subsequent lack of time spent outdoors.

The solution? Set limits on screen time, and get your kids outdoors. One study showed that approximately 76 minutes of outdoor time per day corresponded with a 50% reduced risk of myopia.

This may seem contradictory since we’ve already discussed the threat of UV damage. Your best bet is to get outdoors, but protect yourself with sunglasses that offer UVA and UVB protection. And, of course, wear sunscreen for overall sun protection.  

Eat nutritious foods

Nutrition can also play a crucial role in eye health. There are specific dietary nutrients that work to preserve eyesight and prevent eye disease.

Among the essential eye-health nutrients is vitamin A. It contributes to your eye health by nourishing the cornea. Vitamin A can be found in animal-derived foods like egg yolks and dairy products, but the body can also convert plant-based beta-carotene from carrots and other deep orange and yellow fruits and vegetables.

Vitamins C and E can help prevent eye diseases that may appear as you age, such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. 

Stay hydrated

To complement a healthy diet, make sure that everyone in the family is well-hydrated.

Since the eyes rely on water to remain lubricated and produce tears, hydration is key to preventing a range of vision conditions like dry eye syndrome, refractive changes, and cataract formation.

Use water bottles to easily fuel up throughout the day, and opt for water over carbonated beverages whenever possible.

Get regular eye exams

And, finally, of course, regular vision exams are crucial for maintaining healthy eyes and detecting any potential issues early on. Just like you schedule routine checkups for your overall health, making time for regular eye exams should be a priority.

These exams not only assess your current vision but also screen for eye diseases and conditions that may not present obvious symptoms. By catching problems early, you can often prevent them from worsening and avoid costly treatments down the road.

These appointments are also an opportunity to discuss any concerns you have about your vision and receive personalized recommendations for maintaining or improving eye health. Remember, your eyesight is precious, so don’t neglect regular exams–they’re an essential part of taking care of yourself and your family.

Wrapping Up

To sum up, taking care of your vision is not just about seeing clearly; it’s about safeguarding your overall well-being and saving yourself from unexpected healthcare expenses.

Be proactive when it comes to eye care. Investing in quality sunglasses, limiting screen time, and encouraging outdoor activities can promote healthy vision. And, incorporating nutrient-rich foods into your diet and staying hydrated are ways to support eye health from within.

By prioritizing these healthy habits, along with getting regular eye exams, you can reduce the risk of vision-related issues. This can potentially lower long-term healthcare expenses, ensuring both clearer vision and peace of mind for years to come.

Also read:
5 Steps to a Healthier You: Simple Changes to Make Right Now
Self-Care Checklist Printable (Free)
5 Easy Ways to Drink More Water

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