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Vision and Eye Health

We are committed to safeguarding the vision of those who serve and their families. Here you will find essential information about protecting your eyes. By being proactive, you can maintain good eye health and prevent injury. This ensures that your sight is protected both now and in the future. Explore the resources below to learn about protective eyewear, vision health and more.

Eye Protection and Wellness

Eye injuries can happen anywhere, in military combat as well as during daily activities. Using proper eyewear shields your eyes from impact, UV rays, and airborne debris. Whether you are working with heavy equipment, playing sports, or doing yard work, having proper eye protection is key.

Maintaining eye wellness is important for preventing eye problems like computer vision syndrome and other issues that might go undiagnosed. Protecting your vision and being proactive safeguards not only your eyes but also your overall readiness and performance.

Did you know that every day in the US, about 2,000 people experience eye injuries? 

Eye injury can affect your daily life, relationships, and your job. Most of these injuries can be avoided with the proper measures. Shields Save Sight is here to educate you on:

  • Wearing the proper protective eye wear for the job
  • 3 basic steps for responding to an eye injury to avoid further trauma

Over 90% of eye injuries are avoidable if you…

Eye safety is not just a combat concern. Accidents happen on duty, off duty, while playing sports or doing household chores.

On duty: Wear the right safety glasses or APEL eye protection that is DOD approved in the following situations:
  • During training or when rules, instructions, and laws require them
  • Doing work that creates slivers of material or airborne particles
  • During exposure to UV light
Off duty: Put on APEL eye protection when:
  • Doing activities that can cause slivers, particles, or flying debris, such as shop work and yard work
  • Playing sports like basketball, skiing, and racquetball
  • Riding a motorbike
  • Using bungee cords
  • Using chemicals or cleaning products

Why should you choose APEL glasses over any other brand?

Not all glasses or goggles are made the same way. Those that look stylish might not provide good protection. APEL-approved eyewear meets military standards by not breaking down in a ballistic situation. It keeps out various types of debris, giving you the best protection against injury. Every two years they are checked to ensure they still meet safety standards.

Some eyewear, especially those marked "Industrial Eyewear Impact Standard Compliant" or "military approved" might not give you the best protection. In contrast, APEL glasses are the best choice because they are ballistic grade. To buy the safest glasses for your eyes, make sure they have "APEL" on the frame. Friends and family who want to buy you eyewear should look for the "APEL" mark.

How do I order or replace my eye protection (eye pro)?

Contact your frontline leadership to order or replace your eye pro. They will give you a link and buying code to order a new pair of DOD-approved APEL eye pro. You can only order one pair per month. Your unit can also place bulk orders if that is more convenient.

Prolonged time on digital screens can cause Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), leading to discomfort and vision problems. 

Common Causes
  • Extended screen time with no breaks
  • Poor lighting/screen glare
  • Improper viewing distance/posture
Symptoms
  • Eye strain/headaches
  • Blurred vision
  • Dry/irritated eyes
  • Neck and shoulder pain

Click here to learn about the 20-20-20 rule and how applying simple practices can reduce CVS.

Vision Rehabilitation

Vision rehabilitation provides tools that help you remain active in your daily life. This section has resources such as skills training and community programs designed to improve your quality of life. Learn how vision rehabilitation can help you move through your community, connect with others, and perform daily routines. Visit our Vision Rehabilitation Resources page to learn more.

Low Vision

Low vision presents challenges, but there are resources to help you live independently. Here you will find information about low vision care, assistive devices, eye conditions and more to support your daily life. Visit our TRICARE page to learn more.

Vision Health with TRICARE

Good vision is an important part of overall wellness. Here we provide information on scheduling eye exams, dealing with common eye issues, and adopting habits that support good vision. Click here to learn about vision health.  

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Last Updated: February 11, 2025
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