​Do you find yourself having to hold the menu further away to read it? Are you struggling to read messages on your mobile phone or the small print on grocery labels?
 
If you are, you’re not alone.
These are common first signs of presbyopia, the normal loss of near focusing ability that occurs with age. Unfortunately, we can’t escape this, and most of us will start to notice this change in our early to mid-forties. The good news is that we can correct presbyopia very simply with glasses or contact lenses in the prescription you need.
 
What causes presbyopia?
As we age, the lens in the eye gradually thickens and loses elasticity. As a result, light focuses behind the retina instead of directly on it, compromising our ability to focus on close objects.
 
What are the common symptoms?
• Small print appears blurred
• Having to hold reading material further than arm’s distance
• Tired or strained eyes when performing close tasks
• Headaches
 
Why see us?
You don’t need to put up with the inconvenience and strain of presbyopia. Our job is to get your near vision within arm’s length again, and this starts with a comprehensive eye examination. Once we have a full picture of your vision and eye health, we’ll prescribe a tailored solution that fits best with your daily life. It’s natural to feel a little apprehensive about wearing glasses or contact lenses for the first time. Our experienced team will support you through the process, so you see well and feel confident in your new eyewear.

As screen time increases, eye examinations for children become more important than ever.

As another school year begins, we are raising awareness of the critical role a child’s eyes play in their school life; from reading, writing, sports activities to computer use. More often than not, children themselves won’t identify that there is anything wrong with their vision as they assume their vision is just like everyone else’s. That’s why we urge parents to bring their kids in before they start school and every two years thereafter to give us the best chance to pick up vision problems early.   
 
An astounding 1 in 5 children suffers from an undetected vision problem, however the research shows a sharp decline in optometric services to children of all ages up to 14.
 
This trend is alarming because vision is responsible for 80% of all learning in a child’s first 12 years.  Poor vision can interfere with your child’s ability to learn both in and out of the classroom, and can also stunt their emotional and social development. Seeing your child before they start school means we can ensure their visual system is functioning optimally for learning. 
 
Some of key signs and symptoms of vision problems include:

• One eye turns in or out while the other points straight ahead
• Frequent blinking
• Red or watery eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Frequently rubbing eyes
• Difficulty concentrating
• Tilting head noticeably
• Covering or closing one eye
• Difficulty learning to read
• Holding a book very close when reading
• Leaving out confusing words when reading
• Squinting or sitting very close when watching television
• Difficulty recognising familiar people in the distance
• Complaints of headaches, blurred or double vision

 
At Tamborine Mountain Optometrists we take a holistic and extensive approach to an eye examination, including advice on health, diet and lifestyle and the latest eyewear solutions for maintaining healthy eyes and vision.  Call us on 5545 0277 for an appointment or book online on our website www.tamborinemountainoptometrists.com.
 
The facts and figures in this article are sourced from research conducted by Vision Council of America, Making the Grade, 2009.

Relying on a single pair of glasses may not be enough to meet all your vision needs.

One pair of glasses usually won’t do it all. While many people make do with just one pair of glasses, we want people to be aware that settling for one general-purpose pair often means a compromise on their vision.

Take advantage of your optical extras to find the perfect eyewear to update or complement your current pair. Our job as eyewear experts is to recommend what will benefit you most and help you achieve the sharpest vision possible, and we take this job seriously. Whether you spend most of your time in front of digital screens, lead a very active lifestyle or want a high-fashion pair for those special occasions, we’ll tailor our eyewear solution to ensure you get the most out of your annual optical extras.

So what eyewear solutions are available for the various aspects of life?

• Digital Eyewear
  Eye fatigue, blurred vision and headaches are becoming more and more commonplace, as are neck, shoulder and back pain. This is no surprise given that Australians spend an average of 10 hours and 24 minutes on digital devices every day1. A dedicated pair of digital eyewear is recommended for people who spend 2 or more hours in front of digital screens, to help protect the eyes from the strain of their changing visual environment.
• Prescription Sunglasses
  Prescription sunglasses are one of life’s necessities for glasses wearers. Now that there are so many prescriptable frame options available, almost anyone can enjoy the outdoors with superior clarity and protection from damaging UV and glare at the same time. With summer just around the corner, a pair of prescription sunglasses is the perfect way to maximise one’s optical extras.
• Contact Lenses
  Contact lenses give people the freedom they need when glasses can get in the way. Like for sport, travel, weekends and special occasions. The everyday pair simply doesn’t meet every need. With the latest technologies in contact lenses, even the multifocal wearer can see as clearly at varying distances as they would with glasses.
• Reading Glasses
  Close up activities like reading and computer work can put a strain on the eyes and neck. Progressive glasses (also known as multifocals) can eliminate the need to constantly remove or peer over the top of a pair of glasses. Depending on one’s level of cover, reading glasses are often completely covered by optical benefits.
• Sports Eyewear
  Sports-specific eyewear are designed to protect the eyes from both injury and harmful UV rays. Something an everyday pair is not built to do. Sports eyewear can enhance one’s performance and visual comfort on the field. A smarter way for a sports enthusiast or athlete to spend their optical benefits.

These are just some of the ways that optical extras can be maximised before December 31st, rather than settling for one general-purpose pair.
​
The facts and figures in this release are sourced from research conducted by:
1. Ernst & Young (2016). Digital Australia. Sydney, NSW.

From a young age we are educated about the dangers of sun exposure to our skin and overall health, and yet many of us are still unaware of the risks to our eyes. Did you know that your eyes are 10 times more sensitive to UV damage than your skin? Here are 4 reasons why you should protect your eyes as well as your skin, all-year-round.





​4 Reasons You Should Protect Your Eyes From UV

1. Australia has some of the highest levels of UV radiation in the world.
2. Eyes are 10 times more sensitive to UV than your skin.
3. Estimated 20% of cataracts and almost 50% of pterygium treated each year is caused by sun exposure.
4. Cataracts is the most performed elective surgery in Australia.

What You Can Do?
Given the high levels of UV that we’re exposed to in Australia, it’s important to protect the whole family (yes, your kids too!) all year round from UV eye damage – no matter the weather. How? By wearing quality sunglasses that offer high UV protection, and other sun protection as well, like a wide-brim hat.

When to wear sunglasses?
Sunny
Australia has some of the highest levels of UV radiation in the world, which means when the sun is out in full force you want quality protection from UV rays and dangerous glare.
 
Cloudy
There's UV light on overcast or cloudy days and during other seasons – anytime it’s daytime.
Protecting your eyes from UV is a year-round job.
 
Reflective Surfaces
UV rays bounce directly off surfaces like water, snow, sand and concrete - even if you’re in the shade. Quality polarised sunglasses provide superior glare and UV protection in these situations.
 
Driving
There are studies to suggest that most cars’ side windows do not provide effective protection from UV rays. Quality polarised sunglasses will help protect your eyes as well as minimise distracting glare on the road.
 
You see sunglasses. We see protection from eye damage.

Assess Your Eye Health
Seeing us for a regular eye examination allows us to monitor your eye health over time for any signs of UV related eye damage. We will examine the internal and external health of your eyes at length through a series of tests using the latest technology, checking for signs of eye disease and UV damage.

Discuss Your Eye Protection Needs
As part of your consultation, we’ll provide a personalised recommendation for UV protection moving forward that considers your lifestyle and vision needs.

High Quality Sunglasses
Not all sunglasses are created equal. We recommend highest rating UV and glare protection and embrace the latest lens technology to deliver you the best combination of vision and protection.

Polarised Sunglasses
Once you try polarised sunglasses, we’re confident you won’t look back. Superior glare protection is achieved by eliminating distracting reflective light that bounces off horizontal surfaces such as water, roads and sand into our eyes.
 
Prescription Sunglasses
Sunglasses in your prescription are no longer an indulgence and you can select from a wide range of the latest styles. Enjoy the freedom and convenience of clear vision combined with UV protection.

The Facts around Eye health in Australia don’t lie:

• Every 65 minutes an Australian loses part or all of their vision^
• 42%* of people wait until their eyes deteriorate before having their vision and eye health examined
• In a recent Australian study, over 50% of participants found to have an eye condition did not know they had one prior to taking part in the survey
• 1 in 5 children suffers from an undetected vision problem and awareness around children’s eye health is low

 
Tamborine Mountain Optometrists is launching the ‘If you can’t see clearly, nothing is wrong. Right?’ Preventive Eyecare campaign to urge people to safeguard themselves and their families against preventable vision loss with an eyes test every 3 years, or every 12 months if over 65 years old.
​
Nicky Carr from Tamborine Mountain Optometrists said ‘the main reason someone visits an optometrist today is that they experience a deterioration in their vision. Many symptoms of eye disease are silent, so it is really important that Australians don’t wait until they experience a change in their vision before seeing their local optometrist.’

As part of the campaign, Tamborine Mountain Optometrists are highlighting that taking 40 minutes today may just save your sight tomorrow, because 40 minutes is all it takes for the team at Tamborine Mountain Optometrists to provide a holistic 360° comprehensive eye consultation. This consultation is the main weapon against avoidable vision loss and blindness by picking up early signs of eye disease so it can be diagnosed and treated.  

A 360° eye consultation not only includes an evaluation of the sharpness of your vision, but also an in-depth look into the internal and external health of your eyes to check for signs of eye disease, UV damage and other general health conditions. ‘We place an emphasis on our patients’ overall health and well-being, by looking at their diet and lifestyle as well, so that we can prescribe the most tailored eyewear solutions for maintaining healthy eyes and vision’ says Nicky.

Tamborine Mountain Optometrists has been operating on Tamborine Mountain for more than 19 years. The team has more than 58 years’ experience and is passionate about delivering the best possible eye care to the community. They can be contacted on 5545 0277 and are located at North Tamborine Shopping Square at 17-27 Main Western Road.

The facts and figures in this release are sourced from research conducted by: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW); Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 2011–12 National Health Survey (NHS); Line of Sight  blueprint by Optometry Australia; Vision Australia; www.aihw.gov.au/hospitals/surgery-2010-11; www.visioneyeinstitute.com.au/article/facts-eye-health-australia/; ^ Ranzco Eye Foundation *ProVision Consumer Study, 2016 #NEHS 2016.

As technology makes cars increasingly safer, we are raising awareness of the critical role vision plays in safety. Drivers have become very focused on safety, it’s a must-have. Most are concerned about their car’s abilities but don’t think about the major influential factor in crashes: human error. If the person operating a safe car can’t see clearly, then safety features may be inconsequential. 
 
We know that vision is the most important sense for making decisions on the road and that uncorrected vision is a contributor to crash risk.^ Road safety starts with good vision, and that means seeing well at all distances, in all conditions.
  
This lack of awareness around driver safety is concerning for Tamborine Mountain Optometrists. Vision is responsible for around 90% of the information used when driving, even a small change in vision is cause for concern.
 
But how do you know if you might be at risk? Ask yourself if you experience any of the following:

• Trouble recognising details on road signs or number plates?
• Difficulty judging the distance of oncoming vehicles, particularly at night?
• Trouble seeing clearly in changing light conditions, e.g. from day to dusk, dusk to night?
• Visual sensitivity to oncoming headlights?
• Need to move your head to see in side mirrors or read your dashboard clearly?
• Reluctance to drive at night or in unfamiliar environments?
• Uncertainty and lack of confidence behind the wheel?

Driving and modern-day living go hand in hand. Australians are spending more time in their cars commuting and traffic is ever-increasing. Poor vision is a contributor to road accidents and yet it’s a risk every driver can easily reduce by following the ‘Check Your Vision’ Golden Rule*:

• Get your vision checked regularly by an optometrist
• Protect your eyes from glare
• Wear your glasses when behind the wheel

A 360° eye consultation with Tamborine Mountain Optometrists includes a holistic and extensive eye examination plus advice on health, diet and lifestyle. Optometrists have more options and technologies than ever before to help you stay safe on the road including: Vision correction, progressive lenses, anti-reflective coating and polarised sunglasses.
 
^Dr. Tj Van Der Berg, 2005, Relevance of glare sensitivity and impairment of visual function among European drivers, European Commission. World Health Organisation raining Manual 2006: Road Traffic Injury Prevention.
*Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), 2017

Make sure your eyes don’t work harder than you this year.
 
Whether you’re heading back to work or study – it’s time to recharge, refresh and see things anew. Whatever 2018 has in store, we’ll make sure you and your family can see it coming.
 
We can all relate to being overworked throughout the year but there is no benefit in letting your eyes feel the strain of a heavy load. Whether you spend your days indoors at a computer or outdoors exposed to damaging UV, new lens technologies and eyewear designed for your day-to-day activities will ensure you see clearly and comfortably, and remain protected throughout the year.
Have renewed optical extras?
If your annual health fund optical extras were renewed on January 1, you can claim once again on prescription eyewear. Don’t lose sight of your own needs. Prepare your eyes for the year ahead without wearing the full cost.
 
Let us help you ease the strain.
Whether it’s work or study related, your eyes shouldn’t be doing the heavy lifting. Talk to us about how we can ease the strain.
 
Book an appointment with us today on 5545 0277 or book online at www.tamborinemountainoptometrists.com.

Did you know that vision is responsible for 80% of all learning in your child’s first twelve years?^ Poor vision can interfere with your child’s learning and social development, yet often goes unnoticed.
 
That’s why it’s important for children to have an eye examination prior to starting school and again every two years throughout their life, to monitor their vision and eye health. Making this a part of your child’s regular health care routine will give you peace of mind and confidence that they won’t miss a thing.
 
Be aware of signs & symptoms
Keeping an eye out for possible symptoms of a vision problem will ensure that any problems can be detected early to avoid any long-term damage.

• One eye turns in or out while the other points straight ahead
• Frequent blinking
• Red or watery eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Frequently rubbing eyes
• Difficulty concentrating
• Tilting head noticeably
• Covering or closing one eye
• Difficulty learning to read
• Holding a book very close when reading
• Leaving out confusing words when reading
• Squinting or sitting very close when watching television
• Difficulty recognising familiar people in the distance
• Complaints of headaches, blurred or double vision

  
Help your child see every opportunity in 2018.
Book an appointment with us today on 5545 0277 or book online.
And don’t forget that we can process any private health fund optical extras during your visit.
 
^Vision Council of America, Making the Grade, 2009.

Did you know that research by the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation found that your eyes are 10 times more sensitive to UV radiation than your skin?^ And that your eyes are susceptible to both short and long term effects of UV rays?
 
Quality sunglass UV protection year-round is the best solution for protecting your family’s eyes from the risk of eye disease and related vision loss. If you haven’t tried polarised sunglasses tailored to your prescription, we guarantee you’ll never go back. With so many sunglass styles to choose from, we’ll help you find a look you’ll love.
 
Protect your eyes today
Prescription sunglasses complete with quality lenses in your prescription will simplify your life and keep your eyes protected from dangerous UV no matter the season.
 
Have optical benefits?
If your annual health fund optical extras were renewed on January 1, you can claim once again on prescription eyewear. So why wait? Prepare your eyes for the year ahead without wearing the full cost.
 
Book an appointment with us today on 5545 0277 or book online.

^World Health Organisation, Fact sheet No. 261, July 2001

At Tamborine Mountain Optometrists we are here to help you do just that before
they disappear on December 31, 2017.
Use your annual health fund optical extras and our expertise to find the perfect eyewear to complement what you already have or create a new look. With new lens technologies and stunning new frame looks, there are lots of reasons to claim new eyewear.
 
Here are some new eyewear ideas to help you be extras-savvy this year. 
Prescription Sunglasses
Experience crisp vision and UV protection. Sunglasses in your prescription are no longer an indulgence; they’re one of life’s necessities for glasses wearers. Ask us about polarisation for an even better result. You’ll never look back!
Digital Eyewear
Spend 2+ hours on digital devices? Experience neck & shoulder pain, headaches or tired, itchy eyes? Relax and protect your eyes from digital eye strain with dedicated digital eyewear.
Reading Glasses
Wear multifocal glasses and enjoy reading and other close-work? A specific pair of reading glasses will provide clear, uninterrupted vision for these activities.
Sports Eyewear
Whether you play the occasional round of golf or are an elite athlete, Sports specific eyewear can enhance your performance and comfort, whilst protecting your eyes against harmful UV rays and injury.
Contact Lenses
Don’t let glasses get in your way. Enjoy the freedom, comfort and convenience of contact lenses (and they come in multifocals!). The latest contact lens technologies open up a world of possibilities!
Spare Everyday Pair
Whether you’ve broken or lost a pair of glasses, you’ll probably be familiar with the stress of not having a spare pair readily available. Take the stress out of those sticky situations by making sure you have a spare pair with your current prescription on-hand if you need it.
Social/Occasion Glasses
You wouldn’t wear the same pair of shoes with every outfit, so why would you wear the same pair of glasses? Consider a conservative style for work, a bolder design for casual wear and something more elegant for formal occasions.
  
Be savvy with your optical extras. See us before December 31 to get new eyewear without wearing the full cost.