1. Proper Working Distance. Do all near point activities at Harmon distance or slightly further. This is the distance from center of middle knuckle to center of elbow measured on the outside of the arm.

2. Proper Posture. When reading, sit upright and avoid slouching or tilting the head.

3. 20/20/20 Rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20 second break, and move around and look 20 feet away (ie out the window).

4. Don’t angle the paper or book to the side when you are reading or writing.

5. Use a slant board to tilt reading material up about 20 degrees from desk. This the ideal position to minimize eye strain.

6. Adequate illumination in room and over the near task. Near read in dim light.

7. Do not sit any closer to TV than 6 to 8 feet, and be sure to sit upright.

8. When riding, avoid reading and other near activity.

9. Encourage outdoor play or sports activities that require seeing beyond arm’s length.

10. Peripheral Awareness. Be aware of your general surroundings while reading. When walking outdoors, sight a distant object close to eye level and try to be aware where things are to either side.

11. Stress Relieving Lenses are often prescribed for children and adults. They are recommended for all near tasks such as reading, studying, computer work etc. Even though you may have 20/20 distance vision, these lenses relax your near vision, and make close work more comfortable. They are designed to make learning and seeing easier and usually improve comprehension and reading speed.

This information has been provided to you by Dr. Debbie Luk, Development Optometrist at Browzeyeware both in Calgary & Airdrie, AB.