In addition to the things we hear over and over again regarding the results of exercise and smart eating – like fewer heart attacks and strokes, longer life and even a lower chance of dementia – the health of your eyes also depends at least in part on personal lifestyle decisions.

At one time, you slept beautifully. Your head hit the pillow and you were out. In the morning, you woke up refreshed.

What has happened?

You can blame modern life. Today, we sit in the office staring at screens. Not only do our backs hurt when we stand up but our eyes feel grainy and strained.

Along with the books, the clothes and the new schedule there is one more consideration for your kids: Making sure they can read the paper on their desk, or the blackboard at the front of the classroom.

Otherwise, they begin the year behind. These back to school glasses trends can help make sure they can see, and be in style.

According to the National Eye Institute, an office of the National Institutes of Health, three sports account for the highest number of eye injuries seen in emergency rooms. Playing with air guns might seem like a logical culprit. But it is number 3. Basketball and baseball are numbers 1 and 2 in this unfortunate scorebook.

The long wait for summer is over. While enjoying yourself in the sun as often as possible, however, make plans to protect yourself. Especially your eyes.

Luckily, it is easy to do. Simply wear sunglasses every time you go outdoors.

We like to say that 40 is the new 30, 60 is the new 40, etc. We’re living longer and taking much better care of ourselves than previous generations, so even though members of Gen Z may smirk, we can be confident as we take a stand against aging.

There is an exception, and the eyes have it.

We at the Optical Shop of Westport believe that sunglasses with the proper qualities can help you avoid significant medical problems, as well as make you look your best while you enjoy the outdoors.

Here are some of the traits to consider when choosing a pair of sunglasses.

Choosing the eyeglass frame that fits your face perfectly is a little bit of both science and art. The science behind choosing a frame is different than choosing the right dress or pair of jeans for you. The science depends on the use and the type of prescription, that is why it is helpful to have a licensed optician guide you. 

Choosing a frame should also be fun. The right combination ensures that every time you meet someone while wearing your new glasses, you elicit this response: “Those look wonderful!”

It’s difficult to deny: Athletes look better in sports eyewear.

Sports glasses are designed to enhance performance in any sport you happen to engage in, whether it is cycling, skiing, running, baseball, soccer or basketball.

When you are going fast outdoors – on a bicycle, for example – specialized sports glasses will protect from wind, pebbles kicked up from the road, insects and whatever your face collides with in the unlikely event that you hit the ground.

Just because you notice your eyes are tired after a day of staring at the computer screen, or you find you are holding printed materials farther away from your face, it doesn’t mean you have to abandon looking your best.

Schedule an eye exam and select a pair that will fit your eyes, your face and your personality. The Optical Shop of Westport also has ready made reading glasses at our location that are excellent quality!