Digital devices and children’s eye health – The Philadelphia Tribune: The Learning Key

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Tony Hicks scored 15 points and Darien Nelson-Henry 14 to lead Penn over St. Joseph’s 56-52 on Saturday night at The Palestra.

Spending too much time in front of a computer screen can present a number of challenges for young people, including eye strain and blurred vision. — Submitted photo

That’s useful news for parents who may be underestimating the time their children are spending on digital devices, according to a pair of surveys by the American Optometric Association (AOA).

The first survey found 83 percent of children between the ages of 10 and 17 said they use an electronic device for at least three hours each day. However, a separate AOA survey revealed only 40 percent of parents believe their children use an electronic device for that same amount of time.

This may indicate parents are more likely to overlook warning signs associated with vision problems due to technology use. For example, digital eye strain, a temporary condition caused by prolonged technology use, can cause children to experience burning, itchy or tired eyes, headaches, fatigue and blurred vision.

• Position computer screens four to five inches below eye level and 20 to 28 inches away from the eyes. Digital devices should be held slightly below eye level.

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