Did you know that over 2 million people in the UK are living with sight loss and that 50% of this sight loss is avoidable? For many of us, our eyesight is something we take for granted… until it changes. But taking steps to protect your vision doesn’t have to be complicated and National Eye Health Week (22–28 September 2025) is the perfect reminder to put your eye health first.
This year’s theme, “Vision Really Matters”, encourages us all to prioritise regular eye checks and take small but powerful steps in our daily lives to protect our sight for the future.
Why eye health matters more than you think
Your eyes don’t just help you see, they can also tell you a lot about your overall health. A simple eye test can pick up early signs of serious conditions like:
- Glaucoma
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
Often, these issues can be managed more effectively if caught early, long before you notice any symptoms.
Even if you already have some sight loss, regular check-ups remain essential. Changes in your eyes could help professionals make better use of your remaining vision and prevent any further avoidable sight loss.
What 4Sight Vision Support recommends for better eye health
Our local sight loss charity, 4Sight Vision Support (4SVS), has been helping people in West Sussex protect and manage their vision for over 100 years. As proud supporters of National Eye Health Week, they’re sharing valuable advice to help everyone look after their eyes.
Get regular eye health checks
This is the number one piece of advice from 4SVS. Even if your vision seems fine, it’s important to get your eyes tested every two years, or more often if advised by your optician.
Eye tests are free on the NHS for many people, including:
- Over 60s
- Children under 16 (or under 19 in full-time education)
- People with diabetes or glaucoma
- Those receiving certain benefits
You can check your eligibility on the NHS website.
Eat a balanced, healthy diet
What you eat matters. A diet rich in leafy greens, omega-3s, and colourful fruits and vegetables can support long-term eye health and your overall wellbeing too.
Exercise regularly
Scientific evidence suggests that staying active may reduce your risk of certain eye conditions, like glaucoma. That’s because exercise helps maintain healthy blood flow and oxygen supply to the optic nerve.
Take breaks from screen time
Whether you’re working, caring, or simply scrolling, screens are a big part of daily life. To help reduce digital eye strain, try the 20-20-20 rule:
Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something at least 20 feet away.
Your eyes will thank you!
Support in West Sussex: You’re not alone
4Sight Vision Support doesn’t just offer advice, they provide practical support and tailored services for people living with sight loss and their families across West Sussex.
Services include:
- Help accessing local opticians
- Daily living aids and assistive technology
- Emotional support, social groups and outreach
- Advice on reading food labels, preparing meals, and managing in the home
And importantly, all their services are free.
Contact 4Sight Vision Support on 01243 828555
Email: enquiries@4sight.org.uk
Visit: www.4sight.org.uk
