Eye Health's Impact on Work Efficiency
Struggling with productivity has become a common issue, with 8 out of 10 workers reporting a decline in eye health and well-being, leading to productivity anxiety. Over a third of employees feel like they're underperforming multiple times a week.
Social, political, and economic factors plaguing America have worsened this predicament. However, there are other overlooked factors contributing to this issue.
One main concern is eye health, with over 50 million Americans aged 18 and above experiencing some degree of vision loss. Given this significant portion of the population having eye problems, the connection to productivity is quite evident.
The Link Between Eye Health and Productivity
Poor eye health can take a toll on productivity in various ways, from minor annoyances to severe risks like injury.
The most prevalent issue among workers is digital eye strain, which impacts more than half of the workforce. This results in blurry vision, eye strain, and even headaches, negatively impacting focus and completing tasks effectively.
Beyond these problems, chronic eye conditions can also contribute to increased fatigue and absenteeism. According to the World Economic Forum, the cost of visual impairment to productivity is a staggering $411 billion annually. Eye issues can manifest both physically and mentally, affecting productivity through physical limitations and mental health problems like stress and depression. If left untreated, they can also result in severe injuries, impacting employment.
The Worsening Vision of Workers
The challenge of vision problems among workers is growing more pronounced. According to the Census Bureau's American Community Survey, vision difficulty has risen by 28% over the last decade. This translates to millions of workers experiencing difficulty seeing, even with prescription glasses.
Though statistics indicate that the increase in vision issues is tied to the growing elderly population, a significant segment of the younger workforce is also grappling with this problem. Healio reported that 82% of Gen Z employees are working longer hours, contributing to 54% of them experiencing worsening eye health due to extensive screen time.
Tips for Maintaining Eye Health and Productivity
Wearing Protective Glasses for Visually Intensive Tasks
Owing to advancements in eyewear technology, lenses can now protect workers from digital eye strain while also addressing most corrective vision needs. As the digital world expands, more visually intensive jobs are emerging, such as streaming, programming, editing, and web writing.
Solid eyewear should also minimize glare and enhance the clarity and contrast of tasks, as exemplified by "gaming glasses," popular in the esports world. Oakley's Prizm Gaming 2.0 Lens technology, which works with or without prescriptions to reduce blue light without causing significant color shifts and enhancing sharpness of vision, is a great example.
Even outside of the gaming realm, many individuals have reported reduced fatigue when using these lenses for graphic design and other digital screen activities.
Using Lubricating Eye Drops
Dry eye disease is one of the most common eye problems impacting productivity, but it can be easily managed with over-the-counter lubricating eye drops. Alcon Tears is a popular brand, designed to alleviate burning, irritation, and discomfort caused by dry eyes. It is important to note that this drop is not intended for eye infections.
According to the American Academy of Opthalmology, this specific type of eye drop functions similarly to natural tears. Consequently, a prescription is not required to purchase one. However, it's advisable to check the label as lubricating drops without preservatives are generally considered safer. Eye drops intended for red eyes should be avoided as they could exacerbate symptoms.
Once you have the appropriate drops, you can use them as needed, as long as you adhere to the instructions.
Following the 20-20-20 Rule
In addition to equipping yourself with the right tools, it's essential to take breaks and give your eyes time to rest and adjust. Ophthalmologists recommend following the 20-20-20 rule, where you take a 20-second break every 20 minutes to blink your eyes and focus on something that is 20 feet away. This practice is fantastic for both eye health and mental well-being, as it offers short breaks to help you destress and refocus.
Taking these moments to practice deep breathing and stretching can help reduce visual strain and anxiety, making it easier to tackle tasks for extended periods.
- Poor eye health, such as digital eye strain affecting over half of the workforce, results in blurry vision, eye strain, and headaches, negatively impacting focus and productivity.
- The World Economic Forum reports a staggering $411 billion annual cost of visual impairment to productivity, as chronic eye conditions contribute to increased fatigue and absenteeism.
- To maintain eye health and productivity, workers can utilize protective glasses for visually intensive tasks, lubricating eye drops for dry eye disease management, and follow the 20-20-20 rule, taking breaks every 20 minutes to focus on something 20 feet away and practice deep breathing.
