Outdoor play benefits myopia says optometrist ahead of Get Outside Day

A Sheffield optometrist is urging children to take part in the first national Get Outside day this Sunday for the sake of their eyesight.

Get Outside Day is the brainchild of Ordnance Survey whohas 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 isurging 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 Daypage. 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.

For information about the servicesavailable at Alex Gage Family Optometrist or if you have an enquiry regarding eye health and vision, please contact Alex Gageat857 Chesterfield Road, Woodseats, on 0114274 8582 orat48 Sandygate Road,Crosspool, on0114 266 7066.

Ends

Photo:90 mins of outdoor play daily can halt the progression of myopia in children Outdoor play can help children with myopia

For more information or to arrange an interview with Alex Gage or wife and fellow optometrist Sarah,please contact Tracey Baty at three60 marketing on:

Direct line:01430 871360

Mobile:07971 961574

E mail:traceybaty@three60marketing.co.uk

Web:www.three60marketing.co.uk

Notes to editors

1. Please visit www.alexgagevision.co.uk for more information about the extensive services and products that Alex and his wife, and fellow optometrist, Sarah Gage provide at their practices.
2. To keep up to date with news from Alex Gage Family Optometrist, find the company on Facebook and Twitter.