Lighthouse Guild Offers Tips on Protecting Your Eyes from

Sun Damage

July Is National UV Safety Month

NEW YORK (July 1, 2021) - The lazy, hazy days of summer are here in most parts of the United States. And while many of us pay appropriate attention to protecting our skin from the harmful rays of the sun, we may not be as careful about protecting our eyes. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can harm the eyes and affect vision.  

“Exposure to UV radiation can damage the eyes and cause vision loss later in life. Cataracts, one of the primary causes of vision loss in older adults, are linked to long-term exposure to the harmful rays of the sun,” says Dr. Susan Weinstein, low vision optometrist at Lighthouse Guild.

Here are some tips from Lighthouse Guild to help you enjoy summer fun and protect your eyes.

Wear sunglasses and choose them carefully
Sunglasses are often thought of as only a fashion accessory. But it’s important to think first about function rather than fashion when making your selection. Select only sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays and are clearly labeled 100% UV protection or UV400. Consider wearing wraparound frames that wrap all the way around your temples so the sun’s rays can’t enter from the side. Don’t get caught up on the color of the lenses, the price tag, or the brand. The ability to block harmful UV light is not dependent on the cost or the darkness of the lenses. Remember to wear your UV protective sunglasses whenever you spend time outdoors.

Have your sunglasses tested
Not sure whether your sunglasses provide enough protection? Have an eye care professional test them with a photometer.

Replace damaged sunglasses
Glasses that are scratched, damaged, or have faded tints may no longer be effective. So, replacing sunglasses every few years is a good idea.

Wear a hat
In addition to sunglasses, wear a broad-brimmed hat or a cap to protect your eyes.

Don’t skip cloudy days
It may be tempting to skip sun protection on cloudy days. However, the harmful rays of the sun can pass through thin clouds and haze. Also, sun damage to the eyes can occur anytime during the year, not just in the summer.

Never look directly at the sun
Looking directly at the sun at any time, including during an eclipse, can cause damage to the retina of the eye from solar radiation.

Kids need protection too
Young children and teenagers should also wear sunglasses and hats or caps to protect against the harmful rays of the sun.

About Lighthouse Guild 
Lighthouse Guild is dedicated to providing exceptional services that inspire people who are visually impaired to attain their goals. We provide coordinated care for eye health, vision rehabilitation and behavioral health as well as related services. Our podcast series, “On Tech & Vision with Dr. Cal Roberts” offers information and insights about technological innovations that are tearing down barriers for people who are blind or visually impaired. For more information, visit Lighthouseguild.org.