Digital eye strain and clinical correlates in older adults

To evaluate the screen time habits, associated symptoms and clinical characteristics of an older population (60 years and older) drawn from primary care optometry.

Consecutive patients aged 60 years and older, who used a digital device for at least 1 hour per day, attending for an eye examination at a primary care optometric practice in Dublin, Ireland, were invited to participate. The study gathered information regarding the participant's use of digital devices, the types of devices used and duration of use. Best corrected distance acuity and near vision adequacy for reading and device use was recorded.

401 responses were included in the analysis. Based on a Computer Vision Syndrome Questionnaire (CVS-Q) score ≥6, the occurrence of DES in this population was high at 51.6 % with females having a higher median score than males. The mean number of hours devices were used for was 4 hours. 71 % of participants reported symptoms of digital eye strain (DES) when using digital devices. Smart phones were the device type used most by participants but tablets were the device type used for the longest duration. Single vision spectacles were the most commonly used method of visual correction when using digital devices. Participants with better levels of acuity used devices for longer periods than those with poorer acuity.

This study provides a valuable insight into the screen habits and likelihood of symptoms of DES in an older population and, is to date, the first of its kind. It shows that the prevalence of DES in older age adult device users is high, at 51.6 %, with a clear link between dry eye and symptoms of DES. Its results will enable optometrists to provide specific advice to this age group on how best to reduce symptoms of DES.