Sheffield family optometrists Alex and Sarah Gage are urging children to take part in the first national Get Outside Day this Sunday for the sake of their eyesight.
#GetOutsideDay is the brainchild of Ordnance Survey who has teamed up with supporters across the country to organise guided walks, cycling and other outdoor activities in a bid to encourage more people of all ages and abilities to get outside more often.
Ordnance Survey is urging one million people across the nation to get active outdoors on Sunday 30 September in a bid to improve health and wellbeing, but Crosspool and Woodseats Optometrist Alex Gage advises that the benefits of outdoor play go beyond general health and are documented to slow the progression of myopia in children:
“There has been a huge rise around the globe in short-sightedness, or myopia, over recent decades and research suggests that lack of natural light seems to a key factor.
“Spending 90 minutes a day outdoors can help to reduce the risk of myopia and getting involved in the free Get Outside Day activities is a great way to do this.”
To find out what events are taking place nearby, people can visit the National GetOutside Day page. From foraging to cycle rides, there are a range of activities to suit anyone, from 8 months to eighty years old.
Ben Fogle, GetOutside Champion said: “We want to get everyone moving and people should spend more time outside. You’ll feel better for it. When I’m outside I smile more, and it’s the one place that’s repeatedly proven to be good for both body and mind.”
Eye examinations are free for children and students in full time education up to the age of 19. Please call or pop in to either Woodseats or Crosspool if you would like more information or to book an appointment.