Tips For Choosing The Right Sunglasses

Light the Night for Sight' Prevent Blindess America

According to a survey conducted by Vision Council of America, nearly half of parents (45.9 percent) reported that their children "seldom" or "never" wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection. Medical studies have shown that extended exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays can lead to increased risk for cataracts and macular degeneration. Be sure that sunglasses for your child are on your summer checklist.

Follow these steps for choosing the right pair of sunglasses:

• Insist on 100% UV protection.
• Make sure the sunglasses fit properly. It's not a winter coat they'll grow into.
• Be patient - children need to get used to wearing sunglasses.
• Make sure your child likes the sunglasses and that they are comfortable, or they won't wear them.
• Consider impact-resistant lenses, which protect your child's eyes from injury.
• Make sure the frame has features, like spring hinges, that will stand up to the most active child.
• When children are very young, look for sunglasses with straps or ear pieces that wrap around the ear.
• Kids with prescription eyewear should have prescription sunglasses or sunclips for their regular glasses.
• Older kids who wear contact lenses should have non-prescription sunwear for when they're outdoors.

For additional information, please visit our Eye Care Center.

For a free brochure on vision care for your child, please call 1-800-424-8422 or visit www.checkyearly.com.

Portions of the above information was provided with the kind permission of the Vision Council of America (http://www.visionsite.org/)
Last Editorial Review: 7/7/2004