SEEING the way forward

Boost your eye health – decade by decade - and future-proof your vision for years to come with this expert-backed advice

- FAYE M SMITH

LOOK AHEAD

Our eyes are pivotal to living a comfortable life, says optometrist Francesca Marchetti. But with around one in four UK women at risk of developing sight loss*, spotting the early signs is key. 'Focusing on eye health before an issue arises can help to prevent the uncertainty that can come with problems,' adds Francesca.

FIGHT IT

* Get checked

Whatever your decade, annual eye checkups are a good idea, says Francesca. 'But the latest Hauschild data found that just 60% of Brits see an optician regularly.'

* Make sleep a priority

Adequate sleep supports eye health at all ages. 'Aim for seven to nine hours each night,' says Dr Emma Derbyshire.

* Stay clean

Touching and rubbing your eyes too much can cause damage and infections. Wash your hands often to help keep them free from germs and bacteria.

IN YOUR 40S

Eye changes around now could be down to hormones, yet fewer than one in four adults associate menopause with vision changes, found Vision Express. 'Focusing on close objects may also become difficult from this decade,' says Francesca.

FIGHT IT

* Never strain

The lens begins to stiffen in your 40s and many people compensate by holding reading objects further away. Don't put off getting reading glasses, if needed. 'Plus, never read in dim light,' advises Francesca.

* Eat the rainbow