Top Eye Care Tips for 2026
Start the Year with a Clear Vision
There’s no better time than the start of a new year to prioritize your eye health. Getting an eye exam isn’t just about updating your glasses or contact lenses—it’s an essential part of your overall wellness.
A comprehensive eye exam evaluates both your vision and the health of your eyes and can reveal early signs of conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, autoimmune diseases, and even certain neurological disorders. Also, keeping your glasses and/or contact lens prescription up to date can significantly reduce eye strain, headaches, and fatigue.
Kick off 2026 by taking proactive steps to preserve your vision.
Daniela P. Oyola Pacheco, OD, an optometrist at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, shares her top recommendations for maintaining healthy eyes throughout the year.
Spending Long Hours Looking at a Screen?
Whether your screen time is work-related or for entertainment, prolonged digital use can take a toll on your eyes. Digital eye strain is increasingly common, but small daily habits can make a big difference.
Tips to Reduce Digital Eye Strain
- Use preservative-free artificial tears three times a day to keep your eyes hydrated and comfortable.
- Take regular breaks. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: for every 20 minutes of screen time, take 20 seconds to look at something 20 feet away.
- Relax your eyes at the end of the day. Use a warm compress or eye mask for 5–10 minutes, followed by gentle eyelid massage. This can help relieve dry eye symptoms and reduce the risk of developing styes.
Protect Your Sight: See Well, Stay Well
Protecting your eyes is a key part of maintaining long-term health. Daily lifestyle choices can have a lasting impact on your vision.
- Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays to help protect your eyes from sun damage and reduce the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions.
- Eat a nutrient-rich diet. Leafy greens and colorful vegetables provide essential vitamins—such as A, C, and E—that support eye health and visual function.
- Use proper eye protection at work. Safety glasses or goggles can help prevent eye injuries caused by dust, chemicals, or flying debris.
These simple yet effective habits can help keep your eyes healthy and your vision strong for years to come.
Virtual Eye Care: Convenient Anytime, Anywhere
Virtual eye care offers a flexible and accessible way to address certain vision needs without an in-person visit. These appointments are helpful for prescription renewals and initial consultations with eye care professionals.
While virtual visits do not replace comprehensive, in-person eye exams, they can be a great starting point—especially for those with busy schedules or limited access to care. If you’re short on time or live in a remote area, virtual eye care makes it easier than ever to take the first step in your eye health journey.
Have a common eye concern? Connect with a Bascom Palmer Expert
Meet with one of Bascom Palmer Eye Institute’s expert providers from the comfort of your home. Your doctor will evaluate, diagnose, and recommend the care you need—all through a convenient virtual visit.
Common concerns include:
- Eyelid swelling
- Red or pink eye
- Eye discomfort
- Eyelid tenderness
- Discharge from eyes
- Dry eyes
Schedule a Rapid Virtual Eye Care appointment by calling 800-329-7000 (Dial 1, then 2).
Jessica Gonzalez is the manager of communications at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute.
Tags: Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Daniela P. Oyola Pacheco, eye care tips, rapid virtual eye care
