September 23-29

National Eye Health Week

Boost awareness, get check-ups, and take care of your precious sight during National Eye Health Week. Vision matters, take a closer look!

Type
Week
Category
Health

Introduction

Ready to really 'see' what's going on? National Eye Health Week, which begins every year on September 23, is the perfect time to focus on our precious sight! Launched in the UK in 2009, this important awareness week has gained international attention, celebrating the importance of good eye health and the steps we can take to preserve our vision. Can you believe that up to 50% of sight loss is avoidable? This makes National Eye Health Week, more than just a week – it’s an opportunity to influence futures. So, let's take a closer look at our eye care, get those needed check-ups, and boost awareness about vision health!

National Eye Health Week Timeline

2009
Launch of National Eye Health Week
National Eye Health Week was initiated in the UK to raise awareness about eye health and common eye conditions.
2010
Growing Participation
Major organizations join the event, including optical retailers, health professionals, manufacturers, and charitable organizations, indicating its growing importance.
2012
Inaugural Vision Van
The first Vision Van tour launches, offering free eye tests in various locations throughout National Eye Health Week.
2015
Global Recognition
National Eye Health Week's popularity extends beyond the UK, reaching other countries and raising international awareness on the importance of eye health.
2018
Digital Campaigns
The use of digital platforms increases, with campaigns incorporating social media and online resources to spread key messages about eye health.

How to Celebrate National Eye Health Week

1

Start a vision awareness campaign

Utilize your social media channels to spread awareness about the importance of maintaining good eye health. You can share facts, tips, and personal stories to engage your followers. You could even start a challenge encouraging others to get an eye test this week.

2

Attend an eye health workshop or seminar

Look for eye health workshops or seminars in your community or online. These events often feature expert speakers who can provide valuable information about maintaining eye health and preventing vision loss.

3

Organize a fundraising event

Plan a charity run, bake sale, or other fundraising event to raise money for an eye health charity. It’s a fun way to support research efforts and provides much needed resources for those with visual impairments.

4

Try out eye-healthy foods

Curate a weeklong meal plan incorporating foods that are beneficial for eye health. Fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and fatty acids are all essential for maintaining good vision. This is not only a healthier choice but also a fun experiment to do!

5

Host a blindness simulation activity

Want to get a perspective on what life is like for those with vision impairment? Organize a 'be blind for a day' event. This will raise awareness about the challenges faced by the visually impaired and generate empathy for their experiences.

Why National Eye Health Week is Important

A

National Eye Health Week raises vital awareness

This week is not just about highlighting the importance of sight, but also about promoting the need for regular eye checks to prevent avoidable vision loss. With the fact that half of sight loss being avoidable, raising awareness through this event can truly influence futures and save many from unnecessary sight deterioration.

B

Activates community involvement and education

National Eye Health Week serves as a platform for communities to come together and learn about eye health through workshops, seminars and social media campaigns. It offers everyone the opportunity to learn from experts in eye health about how they can better take care of their eyesight.

C

Focuses on practical actions

National Eye Health Week not only spreads awareness but it also encourages tangible actions like trying out eye-healthy foods or launching a vision awareness campaign. This week-long focus gives each individual the chance to take a step to improve and maintain good vision health, making it much more than just an awareness campaign.