Because your eyes deserve a better year than your screen-time reports.
If you’ve noticed more screen fatigue, dry eyes, or headaches lately, you’re not alone. With digital use at an all-time high, now is the perfect moment to set strong vision goals for 2026 and protect your long-term eye health.
At Shire Optometrists, we’re seeing a rise in digital strain, lifestyle-related vision issues, and outdated prescriptions that are quietly impacting people’s daily lives. So we’ve put together four simple, science-backed habits to transform your eye health this year.
1. Take Regular Screen Breaks to Reduce Digital Eye Strain
If you work on a laptop, use your phone frequently, or spend long hours indoors, your eyes are working harder than ever.
The quickest way to reduce digital eye strain?
Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
This simple habit helps prevent dryness, headaches, blurred vision and focusing fatigue.
Why this matters in 2026
Screen time continues to rise across all age groups in the Sutherland Shire. Regular breaks protect your vision, reduce strain, and support long-term eye comfort.
Pro tip: Set reminders on your phone or use screen-time apps, your future self will thank you.
2. Support Your Vision With an Eye-Healthy Diet
Nutrition plays a major role in long-term eye health. Adding the right foods to your weekly routine supports clarity, comfort and protection against age-related vision changes.
The best foods for healthy eyes in 2026:
- Carrots & sweet potato: beta-carotene for low-light vision
- Spinach & kale: lutein and zeaxanthin for macular protection
- Salmon: omega-3s for dry eye relief
- Eggs: a complete package of vision-building nutrients
Healthy diet = better long-term eye comfort, clarity, and protection against age-related issues.
Bonus: These nutrients help reduce sensitivity to bright devices, a win for your scrolling habits.
3. Refresh Your Eyewear: New Year, New Look, New Vision
If your glasses feel “off,” you’re squinting at your phone, or night driving has become harder, you may need a prescription update.
Reasons to refresh your eyewear in 2026:
- Your prescription may have changed
- New lenses offer sharper clarity and better protection
- Blue-light technology reduces screen glare and eye strain
- Updated frames improve comfort and confidence
Note: Many health fund annual optical benefits reset on 1 January, making the start of the year the perfect time to book your eye test and upgrade your glasses while maximising your cover.
At Shire Optometrists, we offer modern frames, advanced lens technology and personalised fittings to ensure your eyewear works perfectly for you.
4. Commit to Consistent Eye Checks
Regular eye examinations are essential for protecting your vision long-term. Many eye conditions develop silently, without early symptoms, which is why annual or bi-annual checkups are recommended for adults.
A comprehensive eye test can detect:
- Changes in your prescription
- Dry eye disease
- Digital eye strain
- Glaucoma
- Macular degeneration
- General eye health concerns
If it’s been more than 12 months since your last checkup, or if you want to use your reset health fund benefits, now is the perfect time to book.
Start Your 2026 Vision Goals Today
Better vision starts with small, consistent habits and support from your local eye-care professionals
Ready for clearer, more comfortable vision in 2026?
Book your comprehensive eye examination at Shire Optometrists and take the first step toward healthier eyes this year.
