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Eye Health Resolutions for 2026 (8 easy changes to make today!)

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The end of the year sneaks up fast. Suddenly you’re thinking about wellness goals, new habits, and what to carry into the new year—and what to leave behind.

Here’s one resolution that doesn’t require a gym membership, extreme diets, or early mornings:
Take better care of your eyes.

Vision isn’t just about seeing clearly—it’s about seeing comfortably, protecting long-term vision, and supporting whole-body health. So if you’re setting intentions for a healthier 2026, here are 8 eye-focused resolutions that are actually easy to stick to—and they make a real difference.

1. Use Artificial Tears… Before You’re Desperate

If you’re only using eye drops when your eyes are burning, you’re already behind. A consistent routine of preservative-free artificial tears can help maintain a balanced tear film and prevent dry eye symptoms before they start.

2. Upgrade Your Screen Habits

The 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It’s simple—but powerful.

Also: keep screens at arm’s length, lower your monitor so you’re looking slightly down, and don’t forget to blink. You’d be surprised how often you don’t.

3. Add Omega-3s to Your Routine

Dry eye doesn’t start on the surface—it starts at the cellular level. A high-quality, triglyceride-form omega-3 supplement supports oil production in your tear film and reduces inflammation from the inside out.

4. Warm Compress = Eye Spa with Purpose

A few minutes with a warm compress mask each day can feel like a mini spa break for your eyes—and it’s one of the most effective ways to soothe dryness and support tear health. We carry high-quality options in our office to make it easy.

5. Eat with Your Eyes in Mind

Yes—kale smoothies do help. Similarly, colourful fruits and vegetables, rich in lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, and antioxidants, protect the retina and support long-term eye health. Think:
Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard

Red peppers and orange sweet potatoes

Blueberries, blackberries, and grapes

Egg yolks, salmon, and walnuts

What you eat does impact how you see—now and in the future.

6. Clean Your Eyelids Like You Clean Your Skin

Every night. No exceptions.

Use an approved eyelid cleanser, hypochlorous acid spray, and a clean washcloth or foam cleanser to gently remove debris, makeup, and bacteria from your lids and lashes. It’s the best defense against blepharitis, styes, and flare-ups. Call us for recommended products.

7. Control Your Environment

Winter means low humidity, forced heat, and long hours indoors.
To protect your eyes:
Use a cool mist humidifier

Avoid blowing heat directly at your face

Wear sunglasses outdoors to block wind and UV

Keep a water bottle near your desk—dehydration shows up in your eyes, too

8. Schedule Your Annual Eye Exam

An eye exam is about more than a prescription check. We evaluate your tear film, screen for early signs of macular degeneration, glaucoma, and dry eye disease, and provide you with a full picture of your ocular wellness heading into the new year.

It’s one resolution that literally helps you see the big picture more clearly.

Start Fresh in 2026

Whether you want more comfort, better vision, or simply peace of mind, we’re here to support your goals—inside and out.

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your eye health or symptoms.

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Written by Dr. Tessa Sokol

More Articles By Dr. Tessa Sokol

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Sokol Advanced EyeCare is located in Madison, Wisconsin. You can find us right on the corner of Atwood Avenue & Winnebago Street. 

Sokol Advanced EyeCare

  • 2000 Atwood Ave.
  • Madison, WI 53704

Hours of Operation

  • Monday: 9:00 AM 7:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 8:00 AM 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 9:00 AM 7:00 PM
  • Thursday: 8:00 AM 6:00 PM
  • Friday: 9:00 AM 4:00 PM
  • Saturday: By Appointment
  • Sunday: Closed

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