Newsletter April 2021

"Children's Vision Digital Screen Tips" Available in 18" x 24" Poster Size

Children are using digital screens more frequently in their everyday lives. To help parents, caregivers, and educators protect children's vision when working on digital screens, Children's Vision Massachusetts and Prevent Blindness have produced a new free informational resource: Children's Vision Digital Screen Tips. These checklists are a good reminder for us all! Display in your home office, health office, preschool or school homeroom, and share the link with parents: www.preventblindness.org/kids-screens Please download and print the 81/2" x 11" page in English or Spanish. While stocks last, thanks to School Health Corporation, a detailed English/Spanish poster of 18" x 24" can now be mailed to you. Click HERE to read more about how to help your child's eyes when using digital devices, and sign up to receive your free large poster!

Vision Disorders in Children: Myopia

What is Myopia? Can Myopia progression in children be prevented or slowed? What actions can parents take to help children with Myopia? How might Myopia connect to near work including digital screen use, or time spent outdoors? Watch a presentation by Dr. Fuensanta Vera-Diaz OD, PhD, Associate Professor of Optometry, New England College of Optometry, to have your questions answered, and more, on this video.

April is Women's Eye Health and Safety Month

Women have a higher incidence of vision problems than men. Two out of every three people living with blindness or vision problems are women, according to the National Eye Institute. Data from The Future of Vision: Forecasting the Prevalence and Costs of Vision Problems shows that women are at higher risk for certain eye diseases and conditions. According to the World Health Organization’s World Report on Vision, women, on average, live longer than men, and are thus at greater risk of developing eye conditions associated with ageing. And due to hormone fluctuations, women may experience vision changes throughout their adult lives.  To encourage women to take a moment to ensure their own vision health and help protect their eyesight in the future, here are some steps that can be taken: Learn about Vision During Pregnancy Learn to Use Cosmetics Safely Learn how hormones can affect vision Taking care of yourself means taking care of your eyes! Watch the video here.

Eyes Up!

Mass Health Provider Access Improvement Grant - due April 14th

Health Care Providers! Purchase medical diagnostic equipment, communication devices, and other resources. Grant funds can now cover:  Remote monitoring equipment to support individuals with disabilities or language barriers. Examples include loaned equipment, resources for remote monitoring. Infection control components (accessories or attachments only) for equipment that advances patient accessibility. Visit PAIGP.org to apply, or view Examples of Potential Grant Funded Investments.

Open Enrollment Extended Through May 23 Massachusetts individuals and families! Now is the time to apply and enroll in health coverage. Check if you qualify for free or lower cost coverage like MassHealth, ConnectorCare plans, or a tax credit. Learn More Save the Date! Focus on Eye Health National Summit On July 14-15, 2021, Prevent Blindness will host the 10th annual Focus on Eye Health National Summit as a virtual interactive event. The Our Changing Vision event is free. All are welcome to attend. Don’t miss out on any of the CVMA monthly newsletters! Please add ptattersall@preventblindness.org to your address book or approved sender list.