Work-from-Home Advice: Screen Setup Tips to Reduce Eye Fatigue

The shift to hybrid and remote work has transformed how many of us spend our days. While working from home offers convenience and flexibility, it has also increased our reliance on digital devices. Long hours in front of a computer screen can lead to digital eye strain. The good news is that the right screen setup can make a big difference in protecting your vision and improving comfort during the workday.

Understanding Digital Eye Strain

When working in an office, you naturally take breaks by walking to a meeting or chatting with colleagues. At home, you may spend hours staring at your screen without moving. This constant focus on a near object (your monitor) puts extra strain on your eyes and may contribute to symptoms like:

• Eye fatigue or dryness

• Headaches

• Blurry vision

• Neck, shoulder, or back discomfort

With hybrid work schedules, the adjustment between home and office environments can also cause additional stress on your eyes - especially if your home setup is less than ideal.

Screen Tips to Reduce Eye Fatigue

• Position Your Screen Correctly: Your monitor should be about an arm’s length (20–24 inches) from your eyes, with the top of the screen at or just below eye level. This setup allows your eyes to look slightly downward, which is more natural and less fatiguing.

• Adjust Lighting & Reduce Glare: Avoid placing your screen directly in front of a bright window or harsh light source. Use blinds or curtains to minimize glare, and adjust your display’s brightness to match the lighting in your room. An anti-glare screen filter can also help.

• Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something at least 20 feet away. This simple habit helps relax your eye muscles and prevent fatigue.

• Adjust Font Size & Display Settings: Straining to read small text increases fatigue. Increase font sizes, adjust screen contrast, and consider using dark mode if it feels more comfortable.

• Use Proper Ergonomics: Your chair, desk, and monitor height should work together to promote good posture. Proper ergonomics not only protect your eyes but also reduce tension in your neck and shoulders.

When to See Your Eye Doctor

If you’re experiencing persistent headaches, blurry vision, eye pain, or dryness that doesn’t improve with adjustments, it’s time to schedule an eye exam. Our optometrist can determine whether you need updated glasses, specialized computer lenses, or treatment for an underlying eye condition.

Don’t Let Digital Eye Strain Slow You Down

Working from home doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your visual comfort. By making simple adjustments to your screen setup and work habits, you can greatly reduce the risk of digital eye strain.

Contact Lifetime Eyecare to schedule your comprehensive eye exam and keep your eyes healthy and comfortable whether you work in an office, at home, or both. Visit our office in Newton, North Carolina, or call (828) 731-2717 to book an appointment today.