Digitally fit eyes are not prone to strain or discomfort when looking at digital screens. They are well-functioning and protected eyes and so cope well with the extra visual demands of digital devices.
People with digitally fit eyes hardly experience digital eyestrain, usually characterized by symptoms like light sensitivity, glare, burning sensation, feelings of dryness, gritty sensation, headaches, and body aches. When they do, it is usually after prolonged work with digital devices, and the eye discomfort is often mild and does not last long. These people have good natural or compensated visual skills and proactively practice habits that promote eye health and visual function.
Visual skills for digitally fit eyes
Good visual acuity
Ability to see objects and information clearly at the required distance. This includes viewing:
- Televisions and projectors at a far distance
- Computers at an intermediate distance
- Phones, tablets, and printed materials at near distance
Good eye focusing
Ability to sustain focus on an object of interest comfortably, and also change focus quickly from one object to another. With good eye focusing ability, you will be able to maintain a clear and comfortable vision while focused on you computer and when you change your focus quickly to a colleague or projector screen at a distance.
Ocular motility
Ability of the eyes to move and following moving objects smoothly with or without much head movement.
Good pupil reflexes
Ability of the pupils to respond appropriately to changing light levels in a timely manner. They can adequately constrict on exposure to very bright light and dilate in dim light.
Good eye coordination
Ability of the two eyes to work together as a team. With good eye coordination, the two eyes are aligned, and they see and move in a way that enables the separate images of each eye to fuse into one image.
Good color perception
Ability to see and discriminate between colors to enable accurate differentiation and interpretation of coloured information on screens.
Good eyelid function
The eyelids can open and close like they should. This includes
- Closing and opening voluntarily (blinking consciously)
- Closing and opening involuntarily (reflex blinking)
- Closing fully during sleep
Habits that promote eye health and visual function
- Adequate sleep
- Regular eye breaks
- Regular checks and adjustment of workspace and devices for eye comfort
- Maintenance of good posture while using your digital devices
- Use of eye protection devices and glasses
- Good nutrition and hydration
- Good eye hygiene
- Regular exercise