Coronation (403-578-3221) Hanna (403-854-3003) Blackfalds (403-885-4040) Lacombe (403-782-6077) Ponoka (403-783-5575 )

Vision Health in Alberta

Book Appointment

Understanding the Importance of Vision Health

Vision plays a crucial role in our daily lives, allowing us to experience the world around us. Taking care of your visual health is essential to maintaining clear and comfortable eyesight throughout your lifetime. 

Armoured Through Education

Explore the various aspects of vision health, including the effects of smoking and cannabis on eye health, the impact of UV light and sun protection, the role of nutrition in maintaining healthy eyes, the benefits of omega-3s and lutein, and the concerns surrounding blue light exposure.

Effects of Smoking & Cannabis on Eye Health

Smoking is known to have detrimental effects on overall health, and its impact on eye health is no exception. Smoking increases the risk of eye conditions such as cataracts, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and diabetic retinopathy. Harmful substances in tobacco can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to reduced oxygen supply and impaired visual function.

Cannabis, which is becoming more widely used, can also affect eye health. While research on the direct effects of cannabis on the eyes is still evolving, studies suggest that cannabis use may lead to temporary redness, dryness, and altered visual perception. However, more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of cannabis on eye health.

Impact of UV Light & Sun Protection

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun can have harmful effects on the eyes. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can increase the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions. To protect your eyes from UV damage, it’s crucial to wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection whenever you’re outdoors. Look for sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB.

Children should be encouraged to wear sun protection from an early age.  The cumulative damage from UV light as you age does contribute to the development of cataracts, lid cancer and growths on the eye.

Role of Nutrition in Maintaining Healthy Eyes

A balanced diet rich in nutrients is essential for maintaining good eye health. Nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like zinc, play a crucial role in supporting the eyes’ structure and function. Here’s a list of foods that are known to provide nutrients that promote healthy eyes and optimal visual function:

  • Sweet potatoes
  • Bell peppers
  • Papaya
  • Dark chocolate
  • Turkey
  • Sunflower seeds
  • Carrots
  • Leafy greens
  • Citrus fruits
  • Nuts
  • Fish
  • Eggs

Benefits of Omega-3s & Lutein

Omega-3 fatty acids and lutein are two nutrients known for their positive effects on eye health. Omega-3s, commonly found in fatty fish like salmon and flaxseed, help maintain healthy retinal function and may reduce the risk of dry eye syndrome. Lutein, found in leafy greens and other colourful vegetables, contributes to the macula’s health and helps protect against AMD.

Understanding Blue Light Exposure

Blue light, a component of the visible light spectrum, has shorter wavelengths and higher energy levels compared to other colours. It’s naturally emitted by the sun, but it’s also produced by digital screens, LED lights, and fluorescent lights.

While some exposure to blue light is essential for good health, aiding in cognitive functions like memory and mood, excessive exposure, particularly from artificial sources, can potentially harm our health. More research is needed in regard to the connection between blue light and conditions like dry eye or digital eye strain. If you’re concerned about the effects of blue light on your eyes, our team is here to help. Schedule an appointment, and we can discuss strategies to help keep your eyes comfortable.

Prioritizing Your Vision Health

Taking care of your vision health involves a holistic approach that includes adopting healthy habits and protecting your eyes from potential risks. Avoiding smoking, protecting your eyes from UV radiation, maintaining a nutritious diet, and understanding the effects of blue light exposure are all essential steps in promoting long-term eye health.

Regular comprehensive eye exams are also crucial for early detection and management of potential vision issues. These exams can help identify any changes in your vision and provide timely intervention if needed. By incorporating these practices into your lifestyle, you can enjoy the benefits of clear and comfortable vision for years to come.

Let’s Get Healthy Together

If you have questions about your visual health or would like to come in for your next exam, simply book an appointment online with us today.

Book Appointment

Our Services

Adult & Senior Eye Exams

Adult & Senior Eye Exams

Children’s Eye Exams & Myopia Control

Myopia Control

Optical & Optical Laboratory Services

Frames & Lenses

Eye Disease Diagnosis & Management

Eye Disease Diagnosis & Management

Emergency & Urgent Medical

Emergency Eye Care

Dry Eye Therapy

Dry Eye Therapy

Glaucoma Management & Treatment Services

Eye Disease Diagnosis & Management

Cataract Referrals & Diabetic Eye Care

Eye Disease Diagnosis & Management

Our Locations

We are proud to be the local, independent optometrist in the Ponoka, Lacombe, Blackfalds, Hanna, and Coronation communities. Vision For Life Eyecare is also a member of Eye Recommend and is dedicated to personalized and comprehensive eye care.

Ponoka Eye Care

You can find us at the corner of 51 Avenue and 52 Street, right across from the Ponoka RCMP station. 

  • 5120 51 Avenue
  • Ponoka, AB T4J 1R7

Book Appointment

Lacombe Vision Centre

You can find us just off Hwy 2A on 49b Avenue, behind Leto’s restaurant, across the street from MNP and Doc Braces.

  • 4716 49b Ave Unit 1
  • Lacombe, AB T4L 1K2

Book Appointment

Blackfalds Eye Care

We are located on Parkwood Road near Highway Street, between Sandstone IDA Pharmacy and Resolve Bar and Grill. 

  • 5013 Parkwood Road, #4
  • Blackfalds, AB T0M 0J0

Book Appointment

Hanna Vision Centre

You can find us on the corner of 2 Avenue W. and 5 Street W., with plenty of parking available around the building.

  • 609, 2nd Avenue W (Kral Professional Building)
  • Hanna, AB T0J 1P0

Book Appointment

Coronation Vision Clinic

You can find us on Municipal Road, right across from the Coronation Hospital and Care Centre, with plenty of parking in front of the building.

  • 5002 – Municipal Road
  • Coronation, AB T0C 1C0

Book Appointment

Eyewear Brands

View All Brands

Our Ophthalmic Lenses

View All Brands

Preventative Strategies to Promote Lifetime Visual Health

Eye disease can come in many forms, and we use innovative diagnostic technology to help detect, manage, and treat different forms of eye disease, such as glaucoma and diabetic eye disease.

We aim to preserve your long-term eye health through early detection and early treatment. Eye diseases can be overwhelming to manage—we want to help.

Book Appointment

Yours to Preserve, Protect, & Cherish, & We’ll Do the Rest

About Us

Eye Exams

Specialty Eye Exams

Brands

Order Contacts

Book Appointment

Ponoka Eye Care

  • 5120 51 Avenue
  • Ponoka, AB T4J 1R7

Lacombe Vision Centre

  • 4716 49b Ave Unit 1
  • Lacombe, AB T4L 1K2

Blackfalds Eye Care

  • 5013 Parkwood Road, #4
  • Blackfalds, AB T0M 0J0

Hanna Vision Centre

  • 609, 2nd Avenue W (Kral Professional Building)
  • Hanna, AB T0J 1P0

Coronation Vision Clinic

  • 5002 – Municipal Road
  • Coronation, AB T0C 1C0
instagram facebook facebook2 pinterest twitter google-plus google linkedin2 yelp youtube phone location calendar share2 link star-full star star-half chevron-right chevron-left chevron-down chevron-up envelope fax