For Healthy Vision Month in May, HR Wellness wants to ensure every member of our Wolfpack has the resources needed to support good vision health. Your eyes are more than just a window to the world; they are a window to your overall health.

Take Steps To Keep Your Eyes Healthy

Healthy vision starts with good habits, according to the National Eye Institute. Follow the tips below to protect your sight: 

• Rest your eyes: Staring at a computer for long periods can tire your eyes. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
• Be active: Physical activity helps you stay healthy and reduces the risk of certain health conditions that can cause eye and vision problems. 
• Eat well: Dark, leafy greens, such as kale and spinach, and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, provide essential nutrients for eye health.
• Wear shades: Wear sunglasses that block 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB radiation.
• Know your family history: Many eye conditions are hereditary; knowing your risk can help you stay ahead of issues.
• Get a dilated exam: This is the only way to catch eye diseases in their earliest, most treatable stages. The exams are especially beneficial for adults who are 50 and older. See the National Eye Institute’s Vision and Aging Resources webpage for more information.

NC State Wellness Resources

• Take a stretch break, and use the HR Wellness stretch break video as your guide.
• Join the HR Wellness email group to learn about wellness-related events, programs and resources.
• Visit the HR Wellness website for wellness resources. 
• Stay active at the Wellness and Recreation Center. NC State employees can sign up for a membership in person and online. New members can receive a free 30-day trial. Monthly and summer passes are available for some fitness programs. 

NCFlex Vision Plan

NCFlex offers vision care through EyeMed. EyeMed has three vision plans, including the Core Wellness Exam option at no cost. If you are not enrolled in one of the three plans, you can sign up during annual enrollment.

If you are enrolled in a vision plan and need to see an eye doctor, you can search for an in-network provider. 

Medical Eye Care Program

North Carolina’s Medical Eye Care Program provides preventative and corrective services to North Carolinians who are at risk of losing their sight and have limited financial resources.