We all need to take better care of our eyes – and, yes, that goes for me too!

Eye health has always been very important, especially as we get older. So how do we deal with challenges like too much screentime, while also making the most of diet and new treatments to ensure our vision is healthy? RACHEL MURRAY, optometrist and owner of Rachel Murray Eyecare in Sligo town, has the answers.

Do we take enough care of our eyes?

No! And we can all do a lot more – myself included!

What can we do to improve eye health?

We all need to have less screen time especially before bed time; follow the 20/20 rule whilst using screens – look away to at least 20 metres every 20 minutes; eat more green leafy vegetables and Omega oils; don’t smoke; wear sunglasses or a peaked hat (especially important for children in bright sunshine), and have an eye test every two years or more frequently if there’s a family history of eye problems.

What can go wrong and what can we do about it?

We are all fortunate to be living in a fantastic era of medical science and most eye problems, if caught early, can be treated. So, if you notice any changes in your eyes or vision go get it checked out.

How much harm can screens do?

A lot of time spent on screens has been linked to development of vision problems, myopia – also known as short-sightedness or nearsightedness – dry eyes and digital eye strain. This can affect people of all ages but young adults who have had myopia from their childhood or teenage years can be especially impacted. There are strong links between spending a lot of time looking closely at things – whether books or screens – and myopia. Research is increasingly linking digital screen and smartphone use to development of myopia in children and teenagers. The best thing we can all do is take regular breaks, avoid holding digital devices too close to your eyes (>30cm) and try to limit your leisure screen time when outside of work and studies.

How did you grow your business? Word of mouth has been the biggest way Rachel Murray Eyecare has grown since I opened 11 years ago.

Do you have health cover? What plan/insurer? Happy with it?

Yes, VHI – and I wouldn’t be without it – but it is annoying living in the northwest with no SwiftCare and other services in our area.

Do people use their health insurance cover enough for eyecare?

We advise our clients who have policies to send in their receipts. I’ve no doubt lots are unclaimed. What did your parents teach you about money?

‘Your health is your wealth’ and ‘Don’t live outside of your means’.

■ Rachel Murray Eyecare won ‘Best Independent Fashion Practice, UK and Ireland’ at the Opticians Awards in December.