The Importance of Sports Eye Safety at Every Age

Protect Your Vision This April for Sports Eye Safety

Nearly 14,000 people every year suffer from permanent vision loss due to a sports eye injury. In recognition of Sports Eye Safety Month this April, Hawaiian Eye Center urges Hawaii residents—especially seniors and active community members—to take simple but critical steps to protect their eyesight.

With Hawaii’s year-round outdoor lifestyle, residents of all ages regularly participate in activities such as tennis, pickleball, golf, swimming, and recreational leagues. While these activities offer important physical and social benefits, they can also pose unexpected risks to eye health.

“Many people don’t realize how common and preventable sports-related eye injuries are,” says Dr. Steven Rhee of Hawaiian Eye Center. “The majority of these eye injuries can be avoided simply by wearing appropriate protective eyewear.”

Whether the sport is high impact or minimal impact, the little leagues or the senior leagues, all participants should be mindful of protecting their vision. Properly fitted, sport-specific protective eyewear made from polycarbonate lenses can significantly reduce the risk of serious harm.

Hawaiian Eye Center recommends the following tips for staying safe:

Always wear protective eyewear designed for your specific sport.
Ensure eyewear fits snugly and properly and meets safety standards.
Be especially cautious in high-impact or fast-moving sports.
Encourage friends, family, and teammates to prioritize eye safety.

This April, during Sports Eye Safety Month, Hawaii residents are encouraged to make eye protection part of their regular sports routine. Taking this simple precaution can help preserve vision and keep you active for years to come.

For more information on protecting your eyes and choosing the right eyewear, or to schedule an eye exam.