VISION IN THE TEENAGE YEARS

With rapid changes occurring in the body during the teenage years, this is often when vision problems first arise. The common vision problems for this age group are refractive problems, which include myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. Myopia, shortsightedness, is the difficulty with distance vision, while hyperopia, farsightedness, is a problem with focusing close up. Astigmatism occurs as a result of an abnormally shaped cornea, leading to the inability to see clearly at long and short distances.

Other eye conditions found in teenagers are often associated with their lifestyle. Symptoms of digital eye strain, such as eye fatigue or dry eyes, may occur due to extended time spent on computers or handheld devices. Involvement in outdoor sport activities without protective eyewear can cause sports-related eye injuries or long -term damage from the UV rays of the sun. Teenagers are sometimes susceptible to eye infections, which may be the result of poor contact lens care or sharing of makeup.

Adolescence is a time when many different factors play a role in creating a busy lifestyle, with academic, social and sporting activities. Their activities will dictate the management of the eye condition as well as the suitable choice of eyewear which needs to be both functional and fashionable.

Refractive conditions can be successfully managed with glasses or contact lenses. Once vision has stabilised and the eyes are less likely to change, at about 18 years of age, refractive surgery is a further option to correct vision. Conditions such as dry eyes, eye infections and eye injuries need to be assessed and treated by an optometrist, who will do a comprehensive eye examination and recommend treatment options.

When glasses are a vision solution for teenagers, a number of factors need to be considered. An important factor that needs to be taken into account is that this is typically a time of the importance of self-image and the concerns of what others may think. The teen may be embarrassed about having a vision problem and feel self-conscious about wearing glasses. On the other hand, they may be excited about making a statement with fashionable frames. The choice of frames needs to strike a balance between fashion and functionality as well as between no longer being a child and not yet an adult.

From the start, your teen needs to be involved in every aspect of the process. Encourage him or her to ask the optometrist to explain their vision condition, how it affects their daily life and the benefit of glasses to correct it. If they understand the problem with their vision, they will be more likely to wear the glasses and take responsibility for their care. Give examples of people they admire who wear glasses, such as sports stars, movie actors or singers. Most importantly, the choice of frames needs to be theirs, with input from the optometrist who will recommend suitable frames based on the lenses prescribed.

Frames are available in all shapes, sizes and colours, to reflect a person’s unique style and personality, to make a statement and boost confidence. They range from vibrant colours to more muted shades, from cats’ eye to square, round to angular, from chunky plastics to streamlined metals, and from oversized to small. The colour of the frame should complement the skin tone and hair colour. Different face shapes have distinct characteristics that specific frame shapes can accentuate and balance. Selecting a frame that harmonises with the shape of the face will highlight the wearer’s best features and contribute to overall balance and symmetry.

Different lens options offer a blend of practicality and style. Clear lenses without a prescription are perfect for those teens choosing eyewear purely as a fashion accessory. UV-protective lenses shield the eyes from harmful sun rays, reducing the risk of eye damage.

Tinted lenses come in various shades, from subtle tints to bold colours. They not only protect the eyes from sunlight but also add an element of personal style. Anti-reflective coating on lenses reduces glare, while enhancing both clarity of vision and cosmetic appearance.

For outdoor sports, the teenager might need polarised sunglasses or light-responsive transition lenses that darken as they move outside. Blue-light-blocking lenses to help alleviate digital eye strain are sometimes recommended. Discuss the most practical and appropriate lens choice with your optometrist.

It is crucial that the chosen vision-correction fits well. If frames don’t sit where they should on the face, vision may be distorted. If they’re uncomfortably tight, keep slipping down the nose, or constantly need readjustment, the teenager is likely to give up on wearing them. Ideally, the width of the frame should not be more than the broadest part of the face. The frame top should not go above the lines of the eyebrow and the bottom should not touch the cheeks.

Help your teenager to develop healthy eye habits, by exercising regularly, following a healthy nutrient-rich diet, wearing sunglasses and eye protection when necessary, taking care with makeup application to avoid infections, and taking regular breaks from digital devices. Storing eyewear safely and keeping glasses clean and free from smudges and scratches helps to maintain clear vision as well as extend the life of the frame.