National Eye Exam Month and Eye Health

August 1, 2024

August is National Eye Exam Month, and the NYCDCC Welfare Fund is sharing resources so you and your family can be proactive about your eye health. By understanding your risk factors, monitoring your vision, and scheduling routine eye exams, you can increase your likelihood of having healthier eyes, as well as catching potentially harmful diseases in their early stages.

Schedule a Comprehensive Dilated Eye Exam

Dilated eye exams are quick and painless. After applying dilating drops, your eye doctor checks your eyes for diseases that may be in their early stages (before they cause vision loss).

The National Eye Institute recommends individuals get a dilated eye exam every 1 to 2 years if you:

– Are over age 60

– Are African American and over 40

– Have a family history of glaucoma

If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, ask your doctor how often you need an exam. Most people with diabetes or high blood pressure need to get a dilated eye exam at least once a year.

To learn more about what eye exams include, you can read this article from the National Eye Institute: https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/healthy-vision/get-dilated-eye-exam

Know Your Family’s Eye Health History

Those with a family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, glaucoma, cataracts, and other diseases are likely at higher risk for eye disease. Talk to your family to understand your risk and meet with your health provider to learn more.

Wear Protective Eyewear

Our members work in environments where risk of eye injury and infection is higher than most workplaces. It is especially important you wear protective eyewear on jobsites. It is also important to protect your eyes with sunglasses when spending time in direct sunlight.

Your Vision Benefits

As an NYCDCC member, you and your covered dependents are each entitled to an eye examination and new glasses or contact lenses once every 12 months (12 months = 365 days).

To learn more about your Vision Benefits, participating providers, and more, please refer to the “At a Glance: Vision Benefits” flyer below.