4 Eye Doctor-Approved Tips for a Better Computer Setup

Whether you’re working from home, gaming, or catching up on emails, long hours in front of a screen can take a toll on your eyes. If you’ve ever ended the day with tired eyes, neck pain, or a pounding headache, your computer setup might be part of the problem.
At Family Vision Optical in Allendale, we help patients create more eye-friendly workspaces, because better vision starts with better habits. Here are four easy adjustments you can make today to protect your eyes and feel more comfortable at your screen.

1. Position Your Monitor Just Below Eye Level

   Your screen should sit slightly below your natural line of sight, not directly at or above it. When your monitor is too high, it can cause dry eye, strain your neck, and encourage bad posture. Lowering your monitor just a few inches can reduce these issues and promote a more relaxed viewing angle.

2. Minimize Glare on the Screen

   Glare is one of the biggest culprits of digital eye strain. To reduce glare:

   • Keep your monitor away from direct sunlight or bright overhead lights.
   • Adjust blinds or curtains if needed.
   • Consider an anti-glare screen protector.

   Less glare means less squinting, and that means less strain on your eyes over time.

3. Light Your Space Well — Don’t Sit in the Dark

   Ever hear that reading in the dark is bad for your eyes? There’s truth to that. When your screen is the only light source in a dark room, your eyes have to work harder to adjust between bright and dark areas. This can cause fatigue and discomfort.
   The fix is simple: make sure your room is evenly lit. A desk lamp or overhead light helps reduce the contrast between your screen and surroundings, making it easier for your eyes to focus and relax.

4. Sit Back and Maintain Good Posture

   Leaning in close to your screen not only strains your neck and shoulders, it can also stress your eyes. Keep your monitor at least 20 to 28 inches away from your face (about an arm’s length), and sit up straight with both feet flat on the floor. A supportive chair and ergonomic setup can do wonders for your comfort and eye health.

Protect Your Eyes with Every Click

Your eyes work hard every day. Give them the care and environment they deserve! These simple, eye doctor-recommended adjustments can help reduce digital eye strain, prevent discomfort, and improve your overall screen time experience.

At Family Vision Optical, we’re here to support your vision, whether that means a personalized eye exam, blue light lenses, or tips for your home office setup.

Schedule your eye exam today and get custom advice for protecting your vision at work and at home.