As the Days Get Shorter, Don’t Let Your Eye Health Take a Back Seat

As autumn arrives in Newfoundland and Labrador, we welcome the beautiful colours, cooler temperatures, and cozy indoor activities that come with the season. While many people focus on preparing their homes and wardrobes for the changing weather, it’s also important to think about how seasonal changes can affect your vision and eye health.

Here are some simple ways to keep your eyes comfortable and healthy this fall.

1. Don’t Forget About UV Protection

Many people assume they only need sunglasses during the summer months. However, harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays are present year-round, even on cloudy days.

Continued exposure to UV light may contribute to cataract development and other eye conditions over time.

Tip: Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays whenever you’re spending time outdoors.

2. Watch for Dry Eye Symptoms

As temperatures drop, we tend to spend more time indoors with heating systems running. Unfortunately, heated indoor air can reduce humidity and make dry eye symptoms worse.

Common symptoms include:

• Burning or stinging
• Redness
• Excessive tearing
• Blurred vision
• Feeling like something is in your eye

Tip: Stay hydrated, consider using preservative-free artificial tears, and talk to your eye care professional if symptoms persist.

3. Make Vision Safety Part of Fall Activities

Fall often brings gardening, yard cleanup, woodworking projects, and home maintenance tasks.

Flying debris from leaves, branches, tools, or lawn equipment can easily cause eye injuries.

Tip: Wear protective eyewear whenever you’re using power tools, mowing, raking, or performing outdoor projects.

4. Eat for Eye Health

Fall is the perfect season to enjoy nutritious foods that support healthy vision.

Foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, can help support overall eye health.

Try adding:

• Spinach and kale
• Carrots and sweet potatoes
• Salmon and trout
• Bell peppers
• Pumpkin and squash

A colourful plate is often a healthy plate for your eyes.

5. Be Aware of Changes in Night Vision

With shorter days and earlier sunsets, many people spend more time driving in low-light conditions.

If you’re noticing:

• Increased glare from headlights
• Difficulty reading road signs
• Trouble seeing while driving at night

it may be time for an eye examination. These symptoms can sometimes be associated with cataracts or changes in your prescription.

6. Don’t Delay Your Eye Examination

Many eye conditions develop gradually and may not cause noticeable symptoms in their early stages.

Regular comprehensive eye exams can help detect:

• Cataracts
• Glaucoma
• Macular degeneration
• Diabetic eye disease

Early detection often leads to better treatment outcomes.

7. Know When Cataract Symptoms Are Impacting Your Life

Cataracts are a normal part of aging, but they can affect your ability to enjoy everyday activities.

You may notice:

• Blurred or cloudy vision
• Increased glare
• Colours appearing faded
• Needing brighter light to read
• Frequent prescription changes

If these symptoms are affecting your daily activities, discussing cataract surgery with your eye care provider may be appropriate.

Looking Ahead

Maintaining healthy vision is an important part of staying active, independent, and engaged in the activities you enjoy. This fall, take a few simple steps to protect your eyes and prioritize your vision health.

If you have concerns about your vision or would like to learn more about cataract surgery and lens options, our team is here to help.

Jackman Eye Institute Dedicated to helping patients throughout Newfoundland and Labrador achieve their best possible vision.