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",[],{},{"nodeType":194,"data":462,"content":463},{},[464],{"nodeType":160,"value":465,"marks":466,"data":467},"Myopia often runs in families, thus children with short-sighted parents are more likely to develop myopia. It typically starts during childhood or teenage years while the eyes are still growing. Children who spend more time indoors or do lots of close-up work are more prone to developing myopia.",[],{},{"nodeType":309,"data":469,"content":470},{},[471],{"nodeType":160,"value":472,"marks":473,"data":474},"What causes myopia? ",[],{},{"nodeType":194,"data":476,"content":477},{},[478],{"nodeType":160,"value":479,"marks":480,"data":481},"Myopia is usually caused by the eye being too long from front to back, which means light focuses in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Genetics and Environmental factors such as extensive time on close-up activities or limited time outdoors can play a role. 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Whether it’s something new or something that’s been bothering you for a while, we’re here to help.  ",[],{},{"nodeType":332,"data":798,"content":801},{"target":799},{"sys":800},{"id":427,"type":329,"linkType":330},[],{"nodeType":194,"data":803,"content":804},{},[805],{"nodeType":160,"value":323,"marks":806,"data":807},[],{},{"entries":809},{"block":810},[811],{"__typename":329,"sys":812,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":427},{"__typename":146,"sys":814,"theme":148,"genericTextComponent":815},{"id":65},{"json":816,"links":872},{"data":817,"content":818,"nodeType":195},{},[819,826,833,840,847,854,861,866],{"data":820,"content":821,"nodeType":161},{},[822],{"data":823,"marks":824,"value":825,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Treatment for myopia",{"data":827,"content":828,"nodeType":194},{},[829],{"data":830,"marks":831,"value":832,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Myopia is really common. We'll help you or your child see clearly and keep eyes healthy. The good news is that there are several effective ways to correct myopia, and the right choice depends on your age, lifestyle, and how quickly your prescription is changing.  ",{"data":834,"content":835,"nodeType":309},{},[836],{"data":837,"marks":838,"value":839,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Glasses for myopia ",{"data":841,"content":842,"nodeType":194},{},[843],{"data":844,"marks":845,"value":846,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Glasses are still the most common way to correct myopia, particularly in children. They use lenses to refocus light onto the retina, which sharpens distance vision straight away. Beyond correcting sight, certain types of glasses are designed to slow down the progression of myopia. These myopia management options use technologies such as peripheral defocus and dual-focus lens designs. Studies show they can reduce myopia progression by around 30-60% compared to standard lenses.  ",{"data":848,"content":849,"nodeType":309},{},[850],{"data":851,"marks":852,"value":853,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Contact lenses and other options ",{"data":855,"content":856,"nodeType":194},{},[857],{"data":858,"marks":859,"value":860,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Contact lenses are a great option and offer visual freedom for sports and social activities. Daily disposable contact lenses are often the easiest option for children and teenagers. Specialised contact lenses, such as orthokeratology lenses (overnight contact lenses that reshape the cornea while you sleep) may also be an option. There are also myopia management contact lenses designed to slow progression while providing clear vision available too. Atropine eye drops may also be prescribed in conjunction with vision correction to assist with reducing myopic progression. ",{"data":862,"content":865,"nodeType":332},{"target":863},{"sys":864},{"id":427,"type":329,"linkType":330},[],{"data":867,"content":868,"nodeType":194},{},[869],{"data":870,"marks":871,"value":323,"nodeType":160},{},[],{"entries":873},{"block":874},[875],{"__typename":329,"sys":876,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":427},{"__typename":146,"sys":878,"theme":263,"genericTextComponent":880},{"id":879},"4HqyWlMgKOPvYrGFcIbSl0",{"json":881,"links":946},{"data":882,"content":883,"nodeType":195},{},[884,891,898,905,912,919,926,933,940],{"data":885,"content":886,"nodeType":309},{},[887],{"data":888,"marks":889,"value":890,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Why early eye tests matter (especially for kids) ",{"data":892,"content":893,"nodeType":194},{},[894],{"data":895,"marks":896,"value":897,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Regular eye examinations are crucial for detecting and managing myopia, particularly in children whose vision can change quickly. Early detection allows for prompt interview of myopia management strategies that can have a positive impact on the long-term development of the eye. ",{"data":899,"content":900,"nodeType":782},{},[901],{"data":902,"marks":903,"value":904,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Fast-changing eyesight in children",{"data":906,"content":907,"nodeType":194},{},[908],{"data":909,"marks":910,"value":911,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Children's eyes develop quickly, and myopia often begins during school years when visual demands increase significantly. Many children don't realise their vision is changing because the progression is gradual. ",{"data":913,"content":914,"nodeType":782},{},[915],{"data":916,"marks":917,"value":918,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Professional monitoring and intervention",{"data":920,"content":921,"nodeType":194},{},[922],{"data":923,"marks":924,"value":925,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Regular professional eye examinations allow optometrists to track not just prescription changes, but also the health of the developing eye using advanced imaging technology. ",{"data":927,"content":928,"nodeType":782},{},[929],{"data":930,"marks":931,"value":932,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Specialised myopia management",{"data":934,"content":935,"nodeType":194},{},[936],{"data":937,"marks":938,"value":939,"nodeType":160},{},[],"For children showing myopia progression, specialised myopia management programmes can be started early, potentially preventing the development of high myopia and its associated risks later in life. ",{"data":941,"content":942,"nodeType":194},{},[943],{"data":944,"marks":945,"value":323,"nodeType":160},{},[],{"entries":947},{"block":948},[],{"__typename":146,"sys":950,"theme":148,"genericTextComponent":951},{"id":75},{"json":952,"links":969},{"data":953,"content":954,"nodeType":195},{},[955,962],{"data":956,"content":957,"nodeType":309},{},[958],{"data":959,"marks":960,"value":961,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Protecting your child's sight ",{"data":963,"content":964,"nodeType":194},{},[965],{"data":966,"marks":967,"value":968,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Detection and early intervention are key to effective myopia management. Although we cannot always prevent myopia from starting, we can take steps to slow its progression and reduce its impact on vision and lifestyle. ",{"entries":970},{"block":971},[],{"__typename":146,"sys":973,"theme":263,"genericTextComponent":974},{"id":70},{"json":975,"links":1087},{"data":976,"content":977,"nodeType":195},{},[978,985,992,1057,1075,1081],{"data":979,"content":980,"nodeType":161},{},[981],{"data":982,"marks":983,"value":984,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Myopia in kids ",{"data":986,"content":987,"nodeType":194},{},[988],{"data":989,"marks":990,"value":991,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Progressive myopia happens when the condition gets worse rapidly. This affects young children in particular, so it’s important to start myopia management treatment as soon as possible. As well as the symptoms listed above, children with myopia might experience or show signs of the following: ",{"data":993,"content":994,"nodeType":1056},{},[995,1006,1016,1026,1036,1046],{"data":996,"content":997,"nodeType":1005},{},[998],{"data":999,"content":1000,"nodeType":194},{},[1001],{"data":1002,"marks":1003,"value":1004,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Difficulty seeing in into the distance/ holding objects close to the face","list-item",{"data":1007,"content":1008,"nodeType":1005},{},[1009],{"data":1010,"content":1011,"nodeType":194},{},[1012],{"data":1013,"marks":1014,"value":1015,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Headaches ",{"data":1017,"content":1018,"nodeType":1005},{},[1019],{"data":1020,"content":1021,"nodeType":194},{},[1022],{"data":1023,"marks":1024,"value":1025,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Excessive blinking ",{"data":1027,"content":1028,"nodeType":1005},{},[1029],{"data":1030,"content":1031,"nodeType":194},{},[1032],{"data":1033,"marks":1034,"value":1035,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Fatigue and lack of concentration ",{"data":1037,"content":1038,"nodeType":1005},{},[1039],{"data":1040,"content":1041,"nodeType":194},{},[1042],{"data":1043,"marks":1044,"value":1045,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Clumsiness ",{"data":1047,"content":1048,"nodeType":1005},{},[1049],{"data":1050,"content":1051,"nodeType":194},{},[1052],{"data":1053,"marks":1054,"value":1055,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Eye rubbing ","unordered-list",{"data":1058,"content":1059,"nodeType":194},{},[1060,1064,1071],{"data":1061,"marks":1062,"value":1063,"nodeType":160},{},[],"If you are concerned about myopia in your child, then the best step is to take them for an ",{"data":1065,"content":1066,"nodeType":177},{"uri":36},[1067],{"data":1068,"marks":1069,"value":1070,"nodeType":160},{},[],"eye test",{"data":1072,"marks":1073,"value":1074,"nodeType":160},{},[],". Children can be tested at any age, even if they can’t read or talk yet.",{"data":1076,"content":1080,"nodeType":332},{"target":1077},{"sys":1078},{"id":1079,"type":329,"linkType":330},"4diaRnJRq8fxdyLQMcENcr",[],{"data":1082,"content":1083,"nodeType":194},{},[1084],{"data":1085,"marks":1086,"value":323,"nodeType":160},{},[],{"entries":1088},{"block":1089},[1090],{"__typename":329,"sys":1091,"linkText":1092,"linkUrl":1093,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":1079},"Find out more about kids eyecare","/eye-tests/kids-eyecare",{"__typename":146,"sys":1095,"theme":148,"genericTextComponent":1097},{"id":1096},"u3n6OZNPdSlMdVMJBxJb6",{"json":1098,"links":1124},{"data":1099,"content":1100,"nodeType":195},{},[1101,1108],{"data":1102,"content":1103,"nodeType":309},{},[1104],{"data":1105,"marks":1106,"value":1107,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Practical daily habits ",{"data":1109,"content":1110,"nodeType":194},{},[1111,1115,1120],{"data":1112,"marks":1113,"value":1114,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Children can protect their vision by spending about two hours outdoors each day, as natural daylight supports healthy eye development and helps reduce the risk and progression of myopia; this time doesn’t need to be structured exercise—simple activities like playing in the garden, walking to school, or eating lunch outside are beneficial. While screen time itself doesn’t directly cause myopia, prolonged close work can cause eyestrain and influence the development of myopia. Limit extensive periods of",{"data":1116,"marks":1117,"value":1119,"nodeType":160},{},[1118],{"type":275}," ",{"data":1121,"marks":1122,"value":1123,"nodeType":160},{},[],"close work or screen time and take frequent breaks. Regular eye exams are also important, with the first comprehensive check recommended at age 3–4 and continued throughout the school years. ",{"entries":1125},{"block":1126},[],{"__typename":146,"sys":1128,"theme":263,"genericTextComponent":1130},{"id":1129},"4BfwmmE7EQrFUrCB2yoWKI",{"json":1131,"links":1166},{"data":1132,"content":1133,"nodeType":195},{},[1134,1141,1148,1155,1160],{"data":1135,"content":1136,"nodeType":309},{},[1137],{"data":1138,"marks":1139,"value":1140,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Environmental factors ",{"data":1142,"content":1143,"nodeType":194},{},[1144],{"data":1145,"marks":1146,"value":1147,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Creating an eye-friendly environment at home and school supports healthy visual development. Ensure good lighting for reading and homework and encourage proper posture when using devices or reading books as habits formed in childhood often carry into adulthood. Limit long periods of close work and balance indoor tasks with plenty of outdoor activities. ",{"data":1149,"content":1150,"nodeType":194},{},[1151],{"data":1152,"marks":1153,"value":1154,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Families should be mindful of any history of eye conditions and discuss them with your optometrist. Teaching children to notice changes in their vision and speak up helps with early intervention that can make a significant difference to lifelong care. ",{"data":1156,"content":1159,"nodeType":332},{"target":1157},{"sys":1158},{"id":427,"type":329,"linkType":330},[],{"data":1161,"content":1162,"nodeType":194},{},[1163],{"data":1164,"marks":1165,"value":323,"nodeType":160},{},[],{"entries":1167},{"block":1168},[1169],{"__typename":329,"sys":1170,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":427},{"__typename":441,"sys":1172,"switchSequenceAtMobile":37,"backgroundTheme":444,"leftColumnCollection":1174,"rightColumnCollection":1298},{"id":1173},"5lci3eDetoP4w5s1cmZeRv",{"items":1175},[1176],{"__typename":146,"sys":1177,"theme":263,"genericTextComponent":1179},{"id":1178},"71O1qO3TADrFFaHrBlJFpa",{"json":1180,"links":1295},{"data":1181,"content":1182,"nodeType":195},{},[1183,1190,1197,1204,1211,1218,1225,1289],{"data":1184,"content":1185,"nodeType":309},{},[1186],{"data":1187,"marks":1188,"value":1189,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Tips for myopia management ",{"data":1191,"content":1192,"nodeType":194},{},[1193],{"data":1194,"marks":1195,"value":1196,"nodeType":160},{},[],"If you have myopia, wearing glasses or contact lenses is the best way to manage your condition day to day. ",{"data":1198,"content":1199,"nodeType":194},{},[1200],{"data":1201,"marks":1202,"value":1203,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Depending on your prescription, it may be that you need to wear glasses or contact lenses all the time, or just when you need them for clear distance vision e.g. when you’re driving or watching a film. It's also fairly common to have different levels of correction needed for each eye, so your optometrist may provide different prescriptions for your right and left eye.",{"data":1205,"content":1206,"nodeType":194},{},[1207],{"data":1208,"marks":1209,"value":1210,"nodeType":160},{},[],"You may also be able to get laser eye surgery to correct your vision (this treatment option is only suitable for adults, not children). Your optometrist will be able to help you choose the right option for you.",{"data":1212,"content":1213,"nodeType":194},{},[1214],{"data":1215,"marks":1216,"value":1217,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Having regular eye tests –every two years – will also help you stay on top of your condition and will allow your optometrist to monitor your vision and see if your myopia is getting worse or if you’re developing any complications. ",{"data":1219,"content":1220,"nodeType":194},{},[1221],{"data":1222,"marks":1223,"value":1224,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Alongside the above, there are several changes you can make that could decrease the chances of your myopia worsening. These include:",{"data":1226,"content":1227,"nodeType":1056},{},[1228,1249,1259,1269,1279],{"data":1229,"content":1230,"nodeType":1005},{},[1231],{"data":1232,"content":1233,"nodeType":194},{},[1234,1238,1246],{"data":1235,"marks":1236,"value":1237,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Limiting your screen time to avoid ",{"data":1239,"content":1241,"nodeType":177},{"uri":1240},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/computer-eye-strain",[1242],{"data":1243,"marks":1244,"value":1245,"nodeType":160},{},[],"eye strain",{"data":1247,"marks":1248,"value":323,"nodeType":160},{},[],{"data":1250,"content":1251,"nodeType":1005},{},[1252],{"data":1253,"content":1254,"nodeType":194},{},[1255],{"data":1256,"marks":1257,"value":1258,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Making sure you’re not holding books or your phone too close to your face",{"data":1260,"content":1261,"nodeType":1005},{},[1262],{"data":1263,"content":1264,"nodeType":194},{},[1265],{"data":1266,"marks":1267,"value":1268,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Taking breaks from screens and close tasks such as reading ",{"data":1270,"content":1271,"nodeType":1005},{},[1272],{"data":1273,"content":1274,"nodeType":194},{},[1275],{"data":1276,"marks":1277,"value":1278,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Spending time outdoors ",{"data":1280,"content":1281,"nodeType":1005},{},[1282],{"data":1283,"content":1284,"nodeType":194},{},[1285],{"data":1286,"marks":1287,"value":1288,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Working or reading in well-lit environments",{"data":1290,"content":1291,"nodeType":194},{},[1292],{"data":1293,"marks":1294,"value":323,"nodeType":160},{},[],{"entries":1296},{"block":1297},[],{"items":1299},[1300],{"__typename":536,"sys":1301,"captionText":17,"imageAltText":1303,"imageLink":17,"image":1304},{"id":1302},"5rQEOi6yEy0nJeovsdvNBa"," Three women enjoying a meal and conversation at an outdoor restaurant table, laughing and interacting joyfully.  ",{"url":1305},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/52g4lBBvcO49oXauU2in9M/2625cf881094acc5dafb448418906077/Ladies_at_Lunch.jpg",{"__typename":1307,"sys":1308,"title":1309,"theme":1310,"expandFirstRow":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":1311},"Accordion",{"id":80},"Common Short-Sight (Myopia) Questions","Grey",{"items":1312},[1313,1329,1344,1376,1391,1423,1438,1453,1468,1483],{"__typename":1314,"sys":1315,"panel":1317,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1328},"Faq",{"id":1316},"3sUAkIt61HSJcJNaWp8av9",{"json":1318},{"data":1319,"content":1320,"nodeType":195},{},[1321],{"data":1322,"content":1323,"nodeType":194},{},[1324],{"data":1325,"marks":1326,"value":1327,"nodeType":160},{},[],"There isn’t a cure for myopia, but it can be managed very effectively. Glasses and contact lenses correct vision straight away, and modern myopia management options can slow down how quickly it worsens. For most people, myopia is easily managed and doesn’t stop them from enjoying everyday life. ","Can myopia be cured?",{"__typename":1314,"sys":1330,"panel":1332,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1343},{"id":1331},"5nkfVonxTbGO9ZRPV8XLQR",{"json":1333},{"data":1334,"content":1335,"nodeType":195},{},[1336],{"data":1337,"content":1338,"nodeType":194},{},[1339],{"data":1340,"marks":1341,"value":1342,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Myopia often begins in childhood or the teenage years, usually between the ages of 6 and 14. It tends to get worse as the eye grows, which is why regular eye tests are so important during school years. For many people, their prescription stabilises in early adulthood once eye growth slows down. ","At what age does myopia usually start?",{"__typename":1314,"sys":1345,"panel":1347,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1375},{"id":1346},"65a5utpdhtgWQCCfBewxVr",{"json":1348},{"data":1349,"content":1350,"nodeType":195},{},[1351,1358],{"data":1352,"content":1353,"nodeType":194},{},[1354],{"data":1355,"marks":1356,"value":1357,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Spending time on screens doesn’t directly cause myopia, but long periods of close-up work without breaks can make it more likely to progress. This includes reading, homework, and digital device use. Research shows that a good balance helps – limiting long sessions of close work and encouraging daily outdoor time.",{"data":1359,"content":1360,"nodeType":194},{},[1361,1364,1372],{"data":1362,"marks":1363,"value":684,"nodeType":160},{},[],{"data":1365,"content":1367,"nodeType":177},{"uri":1366},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/screen-time-for-kids",[1368],{"data":1369,"marks":1370,"value":1371,"nodeType":160},{},[],"screen time for kids",{"data":1373,"marks":1374,"value":323,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Does screen time cause short-sightedness?",{"__typename":1314,"sys":1377,"panel":1379,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1390},{"id":1378},"57XxTQ1FrdNto0EDqk3zkV",{"json":1380},{"data":1381,"content":1382,"nodeType":195},{},[1383],{"data":1384,"content":1385,"nodeType":194},{},[1386],{"data":1387,"marks":1388,"value":1389,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Yes, myopia usually progresses during childhood and teenage years, as the eyes are still growing. This means prescriptions may need to be updated regularly. In most cases, it levels off in early adulthood. For children with rapidly changing eyesight, myopia management strategies such as specialist glasses or contact lenses can help slow progression. ","Can myopia get worse over time?",{"__typename":1314,"sys":1392,"panel":1394,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1422},{"id":1393},"1fs1Yph1iJ7MIl33tufFoA",{"json":1395},{"data":1396,"content":1397,"nodeType":195},{},[1398,1405],{"data":1399,"content":1400,"nodeType":194},{},[1401],{"data":1402,"marks":1403,"value":1404,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Myopia (short-sightedness) makes it hard to see distant objects clearly and usually begins in childhood. Presbyopia is different – it affects near vision and happens naturally as we age, often from around age 40 onwards. It’s possible to have both myopia and presbyopia, meaning you may need different types of correction depending on what you’re looking at. ",{"data":1406,"content":1407,"nodeType":194},{},[1408,1411,1419],{"data":1409,"marks":1410,"value":684,"nodeType":160},{},[],{"data":1412,"content":1414,"nodeType":177},{"uri":1413},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/presbyopia",[1415],{"data":1416,"marks":1417,"value":1418,"nodeType":160},{},[],"presbyopia",{"data":1420,"marks":1421,"value":323,"nodeType":160},{},[],"What’s the difference between myopia and presbyopia?",{"__typename":1314,"sys":1424,"panel":1426,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1437},{"id":1425},"670FklLvmbUJzpOI36kc7c",{"json":1427},{"data":1428,"content":1429,"nodeType":195},{},[1430],{"data":1431,"content":1432,"nodeType":194},{},[1433],{"data":1434,"marks":1435,"value":1436,"nodeType":160},{},[],"High myopia, usually defined as a prescription stronger than -6.00 dioptres, can increase the risk of certain eye conditions later in life. These include detached retina, glaucoma, and myopic macular degeneration. While these complications are rare, regular eye tests are vital to keep an eye on changes and spot any problems early. ","Is high myopia dangerous?",{"__typename":1314,"sys":1439,"panel":1441,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1452},{"id":1440},"5lupeexaEGH6dC0dmP31u7",{"json":1442},{"data":1443,"content":1444,"nodeType":195},{},[1445],{"data":1446,"content":1447,"nodeType":194},{},[1448],{"data":1449,"marks":1450,"value":1451,"nodeType":160},{},[],"No, children don’t grow out of myopia. Once it develops, it usually needs lifelong correction. The good news is that with modern glasses, contact lenses, and myopia management options, vision can be corrected easily, and progression can often be slowed down. ","Can children grow out of short-sightedness?",{"__typename":1314,"sys":1454,"panel":1456,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1467},{"id":1455},"6H6RjPfZFJbvSYtv4y9vMe",{"json":1457},{"data":1458,"content":1459,"nodeType":195},{},[1460],{"data":1461,"content":1462,"nodeType":194},{},[1463],{"data":1464,"marks":1465,"value":1466,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Yes. Studies consistently show that children who spend more time outdoors are less likely to develop myopia and, if they already have it, tend to experience slower progression. Just two hours outdoors each day can make a difference. ","Does spending time outdoors really help?",{"__typename":1314,"sys":1469,"panel":1471,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1482},{"id":1470},"1mryQTDYWfK6DEUk3TMoRO",{"json":1472},{"data":1473,"content":1474,"nodeType":195},{},[1475],{"data":1476,"content":1477,"nodeType":194},{},[1478],{"data":1479,"marks":1480,"value":1481,"nodeType":160},{},[],"If your child is diagnosed with myopia, they’ll usually need to wear glasses most of the time to see clearly at school and in daily life. Some children may only need them for certain activities, like seeing the board at school or watching TV, but most benefit from full-time wear. Your optometrist will give you personalised advice. ","Will my child need glasses all the time?",{"__typename":1314,"sys":1484,"panel":1486,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1525},{"id":1485},"7uGaxUdLGLQUHaK0VsGeOv",{"json":1487},{"nodeType":195,"data":1488,"content":1489},{},[1490,1497],{"nodeType":194,"data":1491,"content":1492},{},[1493],{"nodeType":160,"value":1494,"marks":1495,"data":1496},"It’s much more common for myopia to start in childhood, but adults can sometimes develop it too, particularly if they have health conditions such as diabetes or cataracts. Adults with new or worsening blurry distance vision should book an eye test to rule out any underlying causes. ",[],{},{"nodeType":194,"data":1498,"content":1499},{},[1500,1503,1511,1515,1522],{"nodeType":160,"value":684,"marks":1501,"data":1502},[],{},{"nodeType":177,"data":1504,"content":1506},{"uri":1505},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/diabetic-retinopathy",[1507],{"nodeType":160,"value":1508,"marks":1509,"data":1510},"diabetic retinopathy",[],{},{"nodeType":160,"value":1512,"marks":1513,"data":1514}," and",[],{},{"nodeType":177,"data":1516,"content":1517},{"uri":687},[1518],{"nodeType":160,"value":1519,"marks":1520,"data":1521}," cataracts",[],{},{"nodeType":160,"value":323,"marks":1523,"data":1524},[],{},"Can adults develop myopia later in life?",{"__typename":1527,"sys":1528,"title":1530,"body":1531,"theme":1532,"buttonCollection":1533},"FullWidthBannerSimple",{"id":1529},"1WGy75Pd8zIB5q5ZpdA2sW","Did you know?","AA Members are entitled to a free eye test (valued at $60), once every two years. Remember to present your AA Membership card in-store.","Block Colour",{"items":1534},[1535,1538],{"linkText":1536,"linkUrl":1537,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"Book an appointment","/stores",{"linkText":1539,"linkUrl":650,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"See more eye conditions",{"__typename":1541,"sys":1542,"title":17,"backgroundTheme":1544,"authorEntriesCollection":1545},"AuthorContainer",{"id":1543},"5LuIWTzw9V2ukta5TuB3ym","White",{"items":1546},[1547],{"authorBiography":1548,"authorName":1566,"authorQualification":1567,"authorPhoto":1568},{"json":1549},{"nodeType":195,"data":1550,"content":1551},{},[1552,1559],{"nodeType":194,"data":1553,"content":1554},{},[1555],{"nodeType":160,"value":1556,"marks":1557,"data":1558},"Jonathan has practiced optometry for over 20 years after graduating from the University of Auckland with Honors. His clinical expertise includes Advanced Contact Lenses, Diabetic and Glaucoma Management. Jonathan has worked in both private optometry and ophthalmology practices across NZ, before he took a position at the University of Auckland as a course coordinator and clinical supervisor. ",[],{},{"nodeType":194,"data":1560,"content":1561},{},[1562],{"nodeType":160,"value":1563,"marks":1564,"data":1565},"Jonathan has previously presented at CCLS and NZCO conferences. He has two business degrees and has worked in corporate management settings. Currently he works with Specsavers supporting stores with performance. ",[],{},"Jonathan Payne","B.Optom (Hons), CertOcPharm, PGDipBus, MBA",{"url":1569},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/2BeOKULBlvykl09WNyFnIx/c1f986c9cec7c258572505fd12ce231a/Jonathan_Payne.jpg",{"__typename":1571,"sys":1572,"title":1574,"theme":1544,"listType":1575,"expandAccordion":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":1576},"SingleRowAccordion",{"id":1573},"3VQEBvOZm8JKHYHNMJZHk1","Sources we've used","Numbered",{"items":1577},[1578,1587,1594,1601,1608,1614,1621,1627],{"__typename":1579,"sys":1580,"citationAuthor":1582,"citationYear":1583,"citationDescription":1584,"citationUrl":1585,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1586},"Citation",{"id":1581},"2DtRqEredwENxpNRbY0yTy","Fricke, T. et al.,",2019,"Optical interventions to slow the progression of myopia. Journal of Clinical & Experimental Ophthalmology.","https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10858277/","2025-08-19T00:00:00.000Z",{"__typename":1579,"sys":1588,"citationAuthor":1590,"citationYear":1591,"citationDescription":1592,"citationUrl":1593,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1586},{"id":1589},"5iAfS1w1BjcSoDOezgQaaq","Lam, C.S.Y. et al.,",2023,"Long-term myopia control effect and safety in children wearing DIMS spectacle lenses. Scientific Reports.","https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-32700-7",{"__typename":1579,"sys":1595,"citationAuthor":1597,"citationYear":1598,"citationDescription":1599,"citationUrl":1600,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1586},{"id":1596},"YcxmGfDawlH5sTxSXwLdX","Review of Myopia Management, ",2025,"The proliferation of myopia management spectacles. ","https://reviewofmm.com/the-proliferation-of-myopia-management-spectacles/",{"__typename":1579,"sys":1602,"citationAuthor":1604,"citationYear":1605,"citationDescription":1606,"citationUrl":1607,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1586},{"id":1603},"5z8COkN883lQEyQyRutpz1","  Russo, A. et al.,",2022,"Myopia: Mechanisms and strategies to slow down its progression. Journal of Ophthalmology.","https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35747583/",{"__typename":1579,"sys":1609,"citationAuthor":1611,"citationYear":1583,"citationDescription":1612,"citationUrl":1613,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1586},{"id":1610},"4gSnOiD4gvsY2bkdkV1GRS","Zhang, J. et al.,","Protective effects of increased outdoor time against myopia. Journal of Ophthalmology.","https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31854216/",{"__typename":1579,"sys":1615,"citationAuthor":1617,"citationYear":1618,"citationDescription":1619,"citationUrl":1620,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1586},{"id":1616},"3dVGif9yHBeh9AkXCOqsHG","Li, D.,",2024," Spending more time outdoors can prevent onset of myopia, but not slow its progression. Karger.","https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38710180/",{"__typename":1579,"sys":1622,"citationAuthor":1624,"citationYear":1598,"citationDescription":1625,"citationUrl":1626,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1586},{"id":1623},"5k2yObaZAXUrIFU2GTZOgK","The College of Optometrists,","Childhood-onset myopia management: evidence review.","https://www.college-optometrists.org/category-landing-pages/clinical-topics/myopia/childhood-onset-myopia-management-evidence-review",{"__typename":1579,"sys":1628,"citationAuthor":1630,"citationYear":1598,"citationDescription":1631,"citationUrl":1632,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1586},{"id":1629},"qp92GCU1tildq6Jw9UJtW","  Optometrists.org,","Myopia management: the optical strategy.","https://www.optometrists.org/general-practice-optometry/guide-to-myopia-management/myopia-management/myopia-management-the-optical-strategy/",{"__typename":146,"sys":1634,"theme":263,"genericTextComponent":1636},{"id":1635},"27iK3UT0hdaTPKR5Vd52I8",{"json":1637,"links":1701},{"data":1638,"content":1639,"nodeType":195},{},[1640,1647,1654,1661,1677,1684],{"data":1641,"content":1642,"nodeType":309},{},[1643],{"data":1644,"marks":1645,"value":1646,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Related eye conditions ",{"data":1648,"content":1649,"nodeType":194},{},[1650],{"data":1651,"marks":1652,"value":1653,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Myopia often occurs alongside other refractive errors and eye conditions. Understanding these relationships helps provide comprehensive eye care and ensures all vision needs are addressed. ",{"data":1655,"content":1656,"nodeType":782},{},[1657],{"data":1658,"marks":1659,"value":1660,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Astigmatism frequently occurs with myopia",{"data":1662,"content":1663,"nodeType":194},{},[1664,1668,1674],{"data":1665,"marks":1666,"value":1667,"nodeType":160},{},[],"This combination causes additional blurriness and distortion, requiring specialised lens designs to correct both conditions simultaneously. \nLearn about ",{"data":1669,"content":1670,"nodeType":177},{"uri":171},[1671],{"data":1672,"marks":1673,"value":176,"nodeType":160},{},[],{"data":1675,"marks":1676,"value":323,"nodeType":160},{},[],{"data":1678,"content":1679,"nodeType":782},{},[1680],{"data":1681,"marks":1682,"value":1683,"nodeType":160},{},[],"High myopia complications",{"data":1685,"content":1686,"nodeType":194},{},[1687,1691,1698],{"data":1688,"marks":1689,"value":1690,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Detached retina occurs more frequently in highly myopic eyes due to the stretched, elongated shape of the eyeball, requiring immediate medical attention. \nLearn about ",{"data":1692,"content":1693,"nodeType":177},{"uri":756},[1694],{"data":1695,"marks":1696,"value":1697,"nodeType":160},{},[],"detached retina  ",{"data":1699,"marks":1700,"value":323,"nodeType":160},{},[],{"entries":1702},{"block":1703},[],{"__typename":1705,"sys":1706,"title":1708,"body":17,"backgroundTheme":1544,"actionCardEntriesCollection":1709},"ActionCardBanner",{"id":1707},"4B1jbqghJNAiamx8wh5lYr","Find out more",{"items":1710},[1711,1719,1727],{"title":1712,"body":1713,"imageAltText":1714,"linkText":1715,"linkUrl":1716,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1717},"Why do I need an eye test?","Eye tests play a huge part in making sure your eyes stay healthy.","A man undergoes an eye exam, looking into a slit lamp while an eye care professional examines his eye.","Check your vision","/eye-tests/do-i-need-an-eye-test",{"url":1718},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/0m0X2zxvzwmGgSdaLmKjr/22b1fcb2cff0c095c09f43cb83998189/eye-health_eyetest-banner-545x273.webp",{"title":1720,"body":1721,"imageAltText":1722,"linkText":1723,"linkUrl":1724,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1725},"Your store visit explained","At Specsavers we are focused on caring for your eyes and giving you the best possible vision.","A optometrist operates an eye examination machine while an older man sits in front of it.","What to expect in-store","/eye-tests/your-store-visit-explained",{"url":1726},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/6QwhITwthLzuD6pL1VvWJi/ffd60b36927947fd2f69c9b209caa785/eye-health_storevisit-banner-545x273.webp",{"title":1728,"body":1729,"imageAltText":1730,"linkText":1731,"linkUrl":1732,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1733},"More on eye tests","An eye test is not just about getting glasses – it is a vital health check for your eyes.","A friendly optometrist giving advice to a patient in the test room.","All about eye tests","/eye-tests",{"url":1734},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/5klEt6jTY53XMRkReMeHt9/47f0f0e423a6f56d34cbcf07210ee0b1/eye-health_eyetestinfo-banner-545x273.webp",{"__typename":1571,"sys":1736,"title":1738,"theme":1310,"listType":1739,"expandAccordion":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":1740},{"id":1737},"3BvnafBbHG7FFQlCN4OxeH","Terms & Conditions","Bullet",{"items":1741},[1742],{"__typename":1743,"body":1744},"TermsAndConditions",{"json":1745},{"data":1746,"content":1747,"nodeType":195},{},[1748],{"data":1749,"content":1750,"nodeType":194},{},[1751],{"data":1752,"marks":1753,"value":1754,"nodeType":160},{},[],"Free exam for AA Members applies to standard eye examinations only, normally valued at $60. Excludes contact lens examination and visual field checks. Limited to one per AA Member every two years. Available to current AA Members upon presentation of AA Membership card.",[17,17,17],1780664653570]