New Year Resolutions for your Vision

The New Year is traditionally a time for reflection and renewal. Yet one area of health that is frequently neglected is our vision. Our eyes are constantly at work, adapting to screens, lighting changes and environmental challenges, often without us giving them much thought.

Making a conscious effort to care for your eyes can have a lasting impact not only on your eyesight, but also on your comfort, productivity and overall wellbeing

1. Commit to regular eye examinations

A routine eye examination is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your vision. In the UK, adults are generally advised to have their eyes tested every two years, though some people may need more frequent checks.

Eye examinations do far more than assess whether you need glasses. They can detect early signs of eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, as well as systemic health issues including diabetes and high blood pressure. Many of these conditions develop without noticeable symptoms, making early detection crucial.

2. Reduce digital eye strain

Screens are an unavoidable part of modern life, whether for work, entertainment or socialising. Prolonged screen use can lead to digital eye strain, causing tired, dry or sore eyes, headaches and difficulty focusing.

Adopting healthier screen habits can make a significant difference. The 20-20-20 rule is a simple and effective technique: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Position screens at eye level, increase text size where possible and ensure your workspace is well lit to reduce glare.

Limiting recreational screen time, particularly in the evenings, can also help your eyes recover after a long day.

3. Make eye protection a daily habit

Protecting your eyes from environmental hazards is essential, yet often overlooked. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can increase the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration over time.

Resolve to wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection whenever you’re outdoors, even on overcast days. For added protection, choose wraparound styles, or pair sunglasses with a wide-brimmed hat.

If you participate in sports, DIY projects or work in environments with potential eye hazards, ensure you use appropriate protective eyewear to prevent avoidable injuries.

4. Eat a diet that supports healthy vision

Nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining good eyesight. A diet rich in essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants can help protect your eyes and reduce the risk of age-related eye conditions.

Key nutrients for eye health include vitamin A, C and E, zinc, lutein and omega-3 fatty acids. These can be found in foods such as leafy green vegetables, carrots, peppers, citrus fruits, eggs, nuts, seeds and oily fishlike salmon and sardines.

Rather than drastic dietary changes, aim for steady improvements — adding more colourful fruits and vegetables to your meals is a great place to start.

5. Stay hydrated to support eye comfort

Dehydration can contribute to dry, irritated eyes, particularly during colder months when heating systems reduce humidity indoors. Drinking enough water throughout the day helps maintain tear production and overall eye comfort.

If dry eyes are a recurring problem, consider using preservative-free lubricating eye drops and taking regular breaks from screens. Small changes, such as avoiding direct airflow from heaters or fans, can also help reduce irritation.

6. Update your glasses or contact lens prescription

Wearing an outdated prescription can lead to unnecessary eye strain, blurred vision and headaches, even if the changes in your eyesight seem minor. Many people adapt gradually to changes in vision without realising their eyes are working harder than they should.

Make it a resolution to keep your prescription up to date and wear the correct correction for your needs. Whether you require glasses for reading, computer use or everyday wear, the right lenses can greatly improve comfort and clarity.

If you wear contact lenses, ensure you follow proper hygiene routines and replacement schedules to protect your eye health.

7. Improve contact lens care routines

For contact lens wearers, good hygiene is essential. Poor lens care can increase the risk of infections and eye irritation.

Resolve to wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling lenses, clean and store them as directed and never wear them for longer than recommended. Avoid sleeping in lenses unless specifically advised by your optometrist, and replace lens cases regularly.

If you experience discomfort, redness or blurred vision, remove your lenses and seek professional advice.

8. Prioritise sleep and rest for your eyes

Sleep is vital for overall health, including your eyes. During sleep, your eyes recover from daily strain and maintain moisture levels. Lack of sleep can result in red, dry or twitching eyes and may exacerbate existing eye problems.

Aim for a consistent sleep routine and allow your eyes time to rest before bed by reducing screen use in the evening. Creating a calm bedtime environment benefits both your vision and your general wellbeing.

9. Be mindful of lighting conditions

Poor lighting can force your eyes to work harder, leading to fatigue and discomfort. Make an effort to optimise lighting at home and at work.

When reading or working, ensure light sources illuminate your task without causing glare or reflections. Avoid reading in very dim light for prolonged periods, and take breaks if your eyes feel strained.

10. Manage stress for better eye health

Stress can affect your body in unexpected ways, including your eyes. Eye twitching, headaches and visual discomfort can all be linked to prolonged stress and fatigue.

Incorporating stress-reducing activities such as exercise, meditation or simply spending time outdoors can help support both mental wellbeing and eye comfort. A healthier lifestyle overall often leads to healthier eyes.

Clearer vision in 2026

Caring for your vision doesn’t require dramatic changes — consistency is key. By making small, manageable resolutions and sticking to them throughout the year, you can protect your eyesight and enjoy greater comfort and clarity in everyday life.