KLAS-TV Channel 8 News Las VegasKids Need Sunglasses Too As Temps Rise

Kids Need Sunglasses Too As Temps Rise

As we head full-steam ahead into triple-digit temperatures, protection from the sun becomes a bigger priority. But the American Optometric Association says we need to do a better job encouraging children to wear sunglasses.

Eye on Health spoke with a local specialist who sees the long term results.

"I really hadn't given a tremendous amount of thought about sunglasses for my kids," said Las Vegas native, Sharon Abshier. She says she tries to make sure her 6-year-old son, Christian wears sunscreen to protect his skin from Southern Nevada's ever-present sun.

And now, she may also encourage him to wear sunglasses.

"It just seems prudent to let your children have that protection too. And I think the more parents become aware, that it is important to protect your children's eyes as much as their skin, more of us will be doing that," said Abshier.

Las Vegas ophthalmologist, Mark Doubrava, says vision problems that surface when a person's older, such as macular degeneration -- may have gotten a foothold in youth due to exposure to ultraviolet light.

He says wearing sunglasses at least by age 7 or 8 is a good idea. But this was not common knowledge for previous generations.

"You know, it's just recently, maybe in the last decade, we've really realized how much sun damage can cause whether it be to the skin or to the eyes," said Dr. Doubrava.

Parents might be hesitant to buy an expensive pair of shades for their 8-year-old. But Dr. Doubrava cautions against buying a pair that's so cheap, they can't provide adequate protection.

"I don't recommend my patients to get the sunglasses, maybe at the flea market, that have no label or tag on there because we're just suspect of the material. And it may not provide the UV protection. Even though they may look nice, they may not give the protection," said Dr. Doubrava.

While children may not show much interest in the long-term effects of UV rays on their eyes, a little encouragement can go a long way.

"But it is nice to maybe try to instill the habit as a child. So as they get into young adulthood, and an adult, they're used to it just think it's part of them to wear sunglasses and protect the eyes," said Dr. Doubrava.

He also said in addition to sunglasses, another good habit to instill in children is wearing hats. And keep in mind, the sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.