July 8, 2021 — In honor of National UV Safety Month, Lighthouse Guild has shared several tips for protecting eyes from sun damage. 
“Exposure to UV radiation can damage the eyes and cause vision loss later in life,” says Susan Weinstein, O.D., of Lighthouse Guild. “Cataracts, one of the primary causes of vision loss in older adults, are linked to long-term exposure to the harmful rays of the sun.” 

Lighthouse Guild, an organization dedicated to providing services for visually impaired individuals, has shared the following tips for the public, below:

1. Have sunglasses tested. To be positive that sunglasses provide adequate protection, Lighthouse Guild advises having an eyecare professional test them with a photometer.
2. Replace damaged sunglasses. Glasses that are scratched, damaged, or have faded tints may no longer be effective, shares the organization. 
3. Sport a hat. A broad-brimmed hat or a cap is a great accompaniment to sunglasses to ensure eye protection. 
4. Don’t skip cloudy days. Lighthouse Guild reminds the public that sun damage to the eyes can occur any time throughout the year, not just in the summer.
5. Never look directly at the sun. Looking directly at the sun at any time, including during an eclipse, can cause damage to the retina of the eye from solar radiation.
6. Protect children, too. Young children and teenagers should also wear sunglasses and hats or caps to protect against the harmful rays of the sun, shares the organization.

For more from Lighthouse Guild, including information on its podcast series, “On Tech & Vision with Dr. Cal Roberts,” head here.