Families should include eye exam as a healthy resolution for New Year

With the start of the New Year, many people are focused on living healthier, more active lifestyles through exercise, proper diet and nutrition, and regular visits to healthcare professionals. One aspect of overall health and wellness that's often overlooked is eye health. It's important for families to include an eye exam as a healthy resolution for the New Year.

"Visiting an eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam helps to ensure you're seeing your best throughout the entire year," said Dr. Larry Lampert, optometrist and sports vision specialist in Boca Raton, Fla. "In addition to identifying vision-related conditions, which are often triggered by cumulative UV exposure, an eye exam may also detect system-wide conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure."

As people work towards achieving a healthier lifestyle in the New Year, they are often drawn outdoors for a variety of sports and activities. While outdoor activity is enjoyable, the increased amount of time spent in the sun - whether you're playing golf, having a picnic or simply taking a walk - is not only a danger to the skin, but also poses a significant threat to the eyes.

UV rays are present 365 days a year and regardless of whether it's sunny, cloudy or in between, it's always important to protect your eyes and the sensitive skin surrounding your eyes.

Dr. Lampert offers the following simple steps each member of the family can take, unless otherwise directed by their physician, to preserve the health and wellness of their eyes throughout the entire year.

• Schedule regular visits to your local eyecare professional
• Before going outside for an extended period of time, check the UV index in your area
• Wear sunscreen and UV protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat
• If you wear prescription lenses, consider photochromics, like Transitions® lenses that automatically block 100 percent of UV rays and help to reduce distracting glare
• Drink eight to ten glasses of water daily to hydrate your body and your eyes
• Maintain a balanced diet high in beta carotene - check out the top 10 foods for healthy vision