The Impact of Outdoor Time on Myopia Progression in Children

Myopia is a growing concern among children, with more cases being diagnosed at younger ages. While genetics and screen time are known contributors, recent research highlights a simple yet powerful way to slow its progression: spending more time outdoors. At Vision Tech Optometry Center, we’re dedicated to helping families in Waynesboro, Virginia, understand how daily habits and treatment can make a lasting impact on their child’s vision and eye health.
 

What Is Myopia?

Myopia is a refractive error that occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back or when the cornea is too curved. This causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it, resulting in blurry distance vision. Children with myopia may squint to see the board at school, sit very close to the TV, or complain of frequent headaches.
 

Contributing Factors to Myopia

Several factors can influence the development and progression of myopia:

• Genetics: Children with one or both myopic parents are at greater risk.

• Excessive screen time and near work: Activities such as reading, tablet use, and computer work have been linked to increased risk.

• Lack of outdoor activity: Studies show a strong correlation between reduced time spent outdoors and the progression of myopia in children.
   

The Role of Outdoor Time in Myopia Control

Spending more time outdoors has been shown to reduce the risk of developing myopia and slow its progression in children. Natural light helps regulate eye growth, and outdoor activities typically involve looking at objects farther away, which gives the eyes a needed break from constant close-up focus.
 

Studies suggest that children who spend at least 2 hours a day outdoors have a lower risk of myopia progression compared to those who stay indoors. Sunlight exposure may also increase dopamine levels in the eye, which plays a role in inhibiting excessive eye elongation.
 

The Benefit of Combining Outdoor Time with Myopia Management Treatments

While outdoor time is beneficial, it may not be enough on its own to control myopia progression - especially in moderate to high cases. At Vision Tech Optometry Center, we offer advanced myopia management solutions, including:

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Special overnight lenses that gently reshape the cornea to correct vision during the day and slow eye growth over time.

• Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine can help slow the progression of myopia without significantly affecting near vision.

• Multifocal or Bifocal Lenses: These glasses or contact lenses reduce the strain of near work and have been shown to slow progression in some children.
   

When paired with consistent outdoor time, these treatments provide a powerful, multi-faceted approach to preserving your child’s vision and reducing the risk of future complications such as retinal detachment or glaucoma.
 

Helping Families in Waynesboro and Beyond

Myopia is a progressive condition that can impact your child’s quality of life. Encouraging outdoor play and sunlight exposure, combined with professional myopia management strategies, offers a proactive way to protect your child’s vision for years to come. We partner with families in Waynesboro and surrounding areas to create personalized myopia management plans tailored to your child’s needs. Our goal is to not only correct your child’s vision but also to protect their long-term eye health.
 

Schedule your child’s eye exam at Vision Tech Optometry Center to learn more on how myopia management can help your child enjoy clear, healthy vision. Visit our office in Waynesboro, Virginia, or call (540) 215-8361 to book an appointment today.