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Tuesday, October 18 2011

Why You Shouldn't Buy Your Glasses from a Vision Outlet Chain: Top 3 Reasons


Have you ever heard the adage "you get what you pay for?"
It usually holds true in most every avenue of life, and is certainly no exception when it comes time for your eye exam and vision care needs.

If you're in the market for eyewear, think twice before heading to chain retail stores like Costco, Target, Sears or Walmart or major optical outlets including LensCrafters, Optical Outlets and PearleVision.

Why?

1. Cheap Materials on Eyewear
Optical outlets may feature lower-cost eyeglass frames or "buy-one-get-one" promos for good reason. The chain's unit cost per frame tends to be very low due to cheap materials, mass-manufactured for low cost. Style secondary to function, your child's cute chunky plastic frame won't stand a chance on the playground. So that's why you're getting a second pair, free of charge!

The same can be extended to its stock lenses - often more easily scratched, broken, and with less strength to qualify for their low-cost promotions.

Your vision is nothing to be neglected, as its proper correction is required for critical daily functions. From seeing images to process thought to driving, reading, working - your healthy vision is not negotiable, and shouldn't be left in doubt with questionable-quality eyewear.

Warranties - Or lack thereof!

2. Chances are, little if any warranty will be given on your eyewear when purchased from these establishments.
Your better bet? Visit your local eye care professional to ask about the durability and manufacturer's warranty on each frame sold. Not only will you notice a difference in the assortment of quality eyewear, but most practices will be glad to share all warranty details per frame collection, or point you in the direction of your insurance provider to let you know your eligibility for replacements, should the need arise.

Family Physician is to Family Optometrist as Health Clinic is to Optical Outlet
3. Many people prefer to have a family doctor over visiting local health clinics - why not? It's nice to have a person and place to turn to, keeping a record of your health ailments and concerns over time, getting to know you on a personal level. That's not to say that health clinics cannot provide a quality of care, especially in a pinch, but the level of personalization, service, and understanding tends not to be there. You might feel the same way about your Big Box Optical Outlets, as well. What if good old Dr. Jones opened up a little primary care practice in Wally World- would you trust a family physician that serves in your local Walmart? Would you feel strange about it? What about your eyesight? Why treat it any differently?

Think carefully and let us know your thoughts. We'd like to know your opinion!

Posted by: AT 05:12 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Tuesday, October 18 2011
Back to School Vision Tips! Top Things to Know About Kids' Vision Screens

1. Vision Screening Should Start Early - Before Pre-School!
It's a good idea to schedule a first optometric exam for infants, usually around 6 months of age. Babies of about 3 months' age should be able to focus and follow an object with his or her eyes, and by 6 months, color, pattern, and depth perception is about as developed as that of an adult. Testing these acuities is very important, especially if your child has a history of prematurity, received oxygen at birth (or anytime there after), blinks or rubs eyes frequently (excluding when sleepy), fails to follow objects with eyes, or seems to have delayed motor development. Vision correction may be required.
At the very least, by the time a child is 3 years old, and again before kindergarten, are critical times for vision screens.

2. As Many as 10% of Infants & Toddlers Require Vision Correction, and About 25% of School-Age Kids Need Glasses
Hard as it may be to believe, A LOT of kids need glasses by kindergarten - this is the reason the first in-school vision screens usually begin with 5 and 6 year olds. Mom & Dad should take charge of their child's health by having his or her eyes examined, and certainly, if they fail their exam, follow-up with a check-up. It might be time for glasses!
*Source: American Optometric Assoc.

3. Inattentiveness May Equal Poor Vision
As much as 80% of classroom learning comes comes from visual observation and comprehension. Imagine how much more difficult it would be to learn if that were impaired? An estimated 25% of High School Students fail a vision screen for even 20/40 vision - that sort of impairment makes driving illegal in most states! Case in point - prepare your kids for school in the right way by getting their eyes examined and purchasing quality corrective eyewear from a trusted professional. Giving them all the tools, starting with good optical health, will help them succeed!
*Sources: American Optometric Assoc., Moorpark Optometric Eyecare

Dr's, parents, students with glasses - we'd like your opinion! What are some of the other things you think are most important to keep in mind about vision screens and checking childrens' vision early?
Send us a comment or suggestion to kick off the forum discussion on this topic!


Posted by: AT 05:09 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Monday, October 10 2011
Many residents in the Tampa area may have Health Savings Accounts, (HSA's), or some other form of flexible spending acccounts.  You and your family may use your benefits in our offices for your eye health examinations, glasses, lenses, contacts, or vitamin supplements.  Use your benefits before December 31, 2011, or you may lose the advantages of saving your money pre-tax.
Posted by: Infinity EYE Care Center AT 03:50 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email

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