Stop the Eyescuses and Book an Eye Exam

New study finds Ontarians are unaware of how easy it is to protect their eyes

TORONTO, May 16, 2019 /CNW/ - According to a recent poll of Ontario Millennials and Gen Xers, those surveyed are making "Eyescuses" about why they don't get their eyes checked on a regular basis.

Although over three-quarters of millennials surveyed state that regular eye exams are important, many feel it takes too long to book or attend an eye exam.

"For a generation who say they don't have the time to make eye health a priority, Ontario's optometrists want to show how easy it is to protect your vision and overall health," says Dr. Joshua C. Smith, President, Ontario Association of Optometrists (OAO). "In fact, it's quicker to book an eye exam than it is to download the latest episode of your favourite TV show".

Over half of Ontarians surveyed believe an eye exam takes longer than ordering and receiving food from an online service, while some Ontarians believe it takes longer to wait to have your eyes examined than it does to wait in line for the newest smartphone. Yet, optometrists are Ontario's most accessible resource for eye care, practicing in more than 200 communities across the province. Plus, 90 per cent of optometrists can see patients with eye-related emergencies on the same day.

"In our evolving, digital, constant screen-time society, it is more important than ever to take proactive care of your eyes today to avoid health problems now and later in life," added Dr. Smith. "Stop making eyescuses and book an eye exam."

To find your local optometrist, visit: findaneyedoctor.ca.

About the Ontario Association of Optometrist Survey

From April 29 to May 6, 2019, Maru/Blue conducted an online survey amongst 1,501 Ontario residents aged 18-54. The margin of error—which measures sampling variability—is +/- 2.53%, 19 times out of 20. Quotas were set to achieve a statistically relevant base size in each of the following regions: Toronto and GTA, Hamilton, Niagara Falls, London, Windsor, Ottawa, North Bay and Sault Ste. Marie (combined) and Thunder Bay.

About the Ontario Association of Optometrists

The Ontario Association of Optometrists (OAO) is the leading professional organization, representing almost 1,700 optometrists in Ontario. We are dedicated to helping our members provide the highest standard of eye health and vision care for Ontarians while driving the profession of optometry forward.  For more information, visit optom.on.ca. Learn more about what optometrists can do for you here, or, find an optometrist near you.

SOURCE Ontario Association of Optometrists

or to book an interview, please contact: Kyla Best, Argyle Public Relationships, 416.968.7311 x225, [email protected]; Brittany Blow, Ontario Association of Optometrists, 905.826.3522 x246, [email protected]