Why Computer Glasses Are Essential as the Nights Draw In

As the nights begin to draw in and the days get shorter, many of us will be spending more time indoors—and inevitably, more time in front of our screens. Whether it’s working from home, catching up on emails, binge-watching a new series, or staying connected with loved ones through video calls, our reliance on digital devices is increasing. But with this rise in screen time comes a growing concern for our eye health.

The Impact of Prolonged Screen Time on Your Eyes

Staring at a computer screen for hours can lead to a condition known as Digital Eye Strain (also called Computer Vision Syndrome). Symptoms of this strain include headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, and even neck and shoulder pain. With longer evenings spent indoors, it’s important to take steps to protect your eyes, as these issues can become more frequent and uncomfortable.

There’s also growing concern about the increasing rates of short-sightedness (myopia), particularly in young people. Studies have linked this rise to excessive screen use and sitting too close to devices. In fact, recent reports show that as our screen time increases—for work, education, or entertainment—the strain on our eyes becomes more pronounced, especially among children and teenagers.

So, what’s the solution? Enter computer glasses—designed to make prolonged screen use not only more comfortable but also safer for your eyes in the long run.

Getting the Right Prescription: What to Ask Your Optician

When you next visit your optician, it’s important to discuss your screen habits to ensure your prescription suits your needs. Here’s what to ask for when requesting a prescription for computer glasses:

1. Mention Your Screen Time: Be clear about how many hours a day you spend on digital devices. Your optician may adjust your prescription for optimal mid-range vision, which is typical for screen use.
2. Request Computer Glasses: Specifically ask for a prescription tailored to screen use. Computer glasses are usually designed for the specific distance between your eyes and the screen (typically 50-66cm or 20-26 inches), which may differ slightly from regular prescription glasses.
3. Discuss Blue Light Protection: Ask your optician about adding a blue light filter to your lenses. Blue light from digital screens is known to cause eye strain and can disrupt your sleep patterns. A blue light filter can help reduce discomfort and protect your eyes during extended screen use.

Lens Coatings for Maximum Comfort and Protection

At Factory Glasses Direct, we offer a range of lens coatings to optimise your glasses and help protect your eyes during screen time. Here’s what we recommend:

1. Blue Light Filtering Coating
   Blue light is a major factor in digital eye strain. Adding this filter reduces the amount of blue light that reaches your eyes, helping to relieve discomfort and protect your vision, especially in the evenings when your body is preparing for rest.
2. Anti-Reflective Coating
   Glare from screens or surrounding light can contribute to eye strain. An anti-reflective coating minimises glare on your lenses, making it easier to see your screen without distractions—ideal if you work in bright environments or under artificial lighting.
3. UV Protection
   Even indoors, UV rays can still affect your eyes, particularly if you work near windows. Adding UV protection to your lenses shields your eyes from ultraviolet light, reducing the risk of long-term damage.
4. Scratch-Resistant Coating
   A scratch-resistant coating helps keep your lenses clear and protected from everyday wear and tear. This is especially useful if you frequently remove and put on your glasses throughout the day.
5. Hydrophobic Coating
   A hydrophobic coating repels water, fingerprints, and smudges, keeping your lenses cleaner for longer. This is a practical option if you’re working long hours and don’t want to spend time constantly cleaning your glasses.

How Computer Glasses Help Combat Short-Sightedness

In addition to reducing eye strain, computer glasses can help prevent or slow the progression of short-sightedness in both adults and young people. Excessive screen use—especially when sitting too close to the screen—can cause your eyes to strain as they continually adjust to focus on bright, close-up objects. Over time, this can contribute to the development of myopia, particularly in younger individuals who spend more time in front of screens.

Computer glasses optimise your focus for mid-range distances, reducing the strain on your eyes and promoting healthier viewing habits. For young people, the right eyewear can make a big difference in preventing long-term vision issues.

Tips for Reducing Eye Strain During Screen Time

While wearing computer glasses is a great way to protect your eyes, adopting some simple habits can further reduce eye strain:

1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet (about 6 metres) away. This gives your eyes a much-needed rest.
2. Adjust Your Screen Brightness: Make sure your screen brightness matches the lighting in your room. A screen that’s too bright or too dim can increase eye fatigue.
3. Maintain Proper Distance: Keep your screen at arm’s length from your eyes to avoid straining your vision.
4. Use Anti-Glare Screens: If your surroundings cause glare on your screen, consider using an anti-glare filter to reduce reflections and help ease the strain.

Take Care of Your Eye Health This Winter

As screen time increases with the shorter days, it’s essential to be mindful of how it affects your eye health. Computer glasses provide a simple yet effective solution to reduce eye strain, improve comfort, and protect your vision for the long term. Whether you’re working, gaming, or catching up on your favourite shows, computer glasses ensure your eyes stay comfortable even during extended screen use.

If you’re not sure which lens options or coatings are best for your needs, our team at Factory Glasses Direct is here to help. We can guide you in selecting the perfect pair of computer glasses that meet your prescription needs and offer the best possible protection for your eyes.

Conclusion: The Right Glasses for the Digital Age

As the nights draw in and screen time naturally increases, it’s more important than ever to look after your eyes. By asking your optician for the correct prescription and choosing the right coatings, you can ensure your computer glasses provide maximum comfort and protection. This winter, take control of your eye health and invest in the right glasses for prolonged screen use. Your eyes will thank you!