Ontario Association of Optometrists Encourages Ontarians to Prioritize Eye Health During Vision Health Month

For Immediate Release
Toronto, ON – May 4, 2026 

This Vision Health Month, the Ontario Association of Optometrists (OAO) reminds Ontarians that maintaining good vision is more than just seeing clearly—it’s a critical part of overall health and well-being.

In a recent episode of Visionary Voices in Optometry, OAO CEO Mark Donnison sat down with Dr. Virginia Donati, OAO Vice President and a practicing optometrist, to discuss the importance of routine eye care, early detection, and everyday habits that protect vision.

“Many people assume if they can see clearly, their eyes are healthy—but that’s not always the case,” said Dr. Donati. “There are numerous eye conditions and even systemic health issues that can develop without noticeable symptoms.

Eye Exams: A Window into Overall Health

Comprehensive eye exams do more than assess vision. The eyes are the only place in the body where doctors can directly view living blood vessels and neural tissue connected to the brain, making them a unique window into overall health. During an eye exam, Optometrists can detect early signs of serious health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and even certain cancers by identifying subtle changes in the retina and blood vessels before other symptoms appear.

Regular eye exams are especially important because many eye diseases, including glaucoma, macular degeneration, and retinal conditions, can progress silently without noticeable symptoms.

How Often Should You Get Your Eyes Checked?

The OAO recommends:

• Infants (0-1): First eye exam at 6 months of age
• Children (0-19): Annual eye exams (covered by OHIP)
• Adults (20–64): Every two years, unless risk factors are present
• Seniors (65+): Regular visits as per optometrist's recommendation
• Taking regular breaks (ideally 10 minutes every 30 minutes of screen use)
• Looking at distant objects periodically to relax focusing muscles
• Ensuring proper lighting and screen distance
• Encouraging outdoor time, especially for children

Individuals with conditions such as diabetes or those taking certain medications may require more frequent monitoring. That’s because some systemic health conditions don’t just affect the body — they can directly impact the eyes as well.

With diabetes, for example, changes in blood sugar can affect small blood vessels in the retina. These changes can develop quietly at first, without any noticeable symptoms, which is why regular eye exams are so important.

Blood pressure issues can also place stress on the delicate structures inside the eye, sometimes leading to changes in vision or longer-term damage if not detected early.

Certain medications can also play a role. Some drugs used for autoimmune conditions, cancer treatments, or long-term inflammatory diseases may have side effects that affect tear production, the retina, or other parts of the eye.

The key point is that eye health doesn’t exist in isolation. It often reflects what’s happening elsewhere in the body.

That’s why patients with these conditions benefit from closer follow-up, even if their vision feels completely normal day to day.

Digital Lifestyles and Vision Strain

With increased screen use across all age groups, digital eye strain has become a growing concern. Symptoms can include dryness, discomfort, blurred vision, and difficulty refocusing.

Children are particularly vulnerable, as they may not recognize the signs of strain. Extended screen time can contribute to issues like eye coordination problems and the progression of nearsightedness (myopia).

To reduce strain, optometrists recommend:

Normal Vision Changes with Age

Vision changes are a natural part of aging. Many adults begin to experience difficulty focusing on near objects in their 40s, a condition known as presbyopia. While this can be frustrating, it is manageable with options such as glasses, contact lenses, or other treatments.

“Vision changes can feel alarming, but they’re often a normal part of life,” said Dr. Donati. “The key is to stay proactive and work with your optometrist to find the right solutions.”

A Simple Message for Vision Health Month

This May, the Ontario Association of Optometrists encourages all Ontarians to prioritize their eye health.

“Regardless of your age or stage of life, there’s no greater investment in your future than taking care of your vision,” said Dr. Donati.

To learn more or to book an eye exam, visit your local optometrist.

Media Contact:
Celecia Partap
Ontario Association of Optometrists
cpartap@optom.on.ca