Eye Care Awareness Month 2025: Protecting the Vision That Shapes Our Lives

Every year, Eye Care Awareness Month is observed in South Africa from 20 September to 17 October. It’s a time to shine a light on the importance of healthy vision and remind everyone just how crucial our eyes are to the way we live, learn and connect with the world. In 2025, this message hits home more than ever, especially for children and families.

We often take our eyesight for granted. That is, until we notice something’s wrong. But eye problems don’t always come with warning signs, especially in children. A child struggling to see the board at school or read a book might be labelled as lazy or inattentive, when in fact, they just need glasses. The good news? Most vision problems can be corrected or even prevented — but only if we catch them early.

This Eye Care Awareness Month, the focus is on education, early detection and accessibility, particularly for our youngest generation. Because when it comes to eye health, the earlier we act, the better the outcome.

The State of Eye Health in South Africa

South Africa faces a growing challenge when it comes to visual impairment. According to the South African National Council for the Blind (SANCB), conditions like cataracts, refractive errors, glaucoma and diabetic eye disease continue to impact thousands of people. But among children, the biggest issue is undiagnosed vision problems that interfere with learning and development.

In many communities, especially rural areas, children don’t get regular eye tests. Parents may not realise their child has a problem, and schools may lack the resources to pick it up. Add to that the cost of glasses, limited access to optometrists and low awareness, and it becomes clear why many children go without the help they need.

Poor vision doesn’t just affect education — it affects self-esteem, social skills and future opportunities. Eye Care Awareness Month is a chance to shift the focus back to prevention and family eye health, making sure that no child is left behind because they can’t see clearly.

How to Keep Your Family’s Eyes Healthy

Looking after your family’s vision doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Most of it comes down to routine care, a few lifestyle choices and knowing what signs to watch for. Here’s what you can do:

• Book regular eye tests: Everyone in the family should have their eyes tested every two years, or more often if advised. For children, it’s ideal to start before they begin school.
• Watch for subtle signs: Kids won’t always say they can’t see properly. Look for squinting, sitting close to the TV, avoiding reading or rubbing eyes often.
• Limit screen time: Digital devices put strain on young eyes. Encourage regular breaks, outdoor play and non-screen activities.
• Protect eyes from the sun: Sunglasses that block UV rays are just as important as sunscreen. They help prevent long-term eye damage.
• Eat for eye health: A diet rich in colourful fruit, leafy greens and omega-3s supports good vision. Think carrots, spinach, oranges and oily fish.

Good vision isn’t just about eyesight. It’s about independence, learning and confidence. For children, it can mean the difference between thriving and falling behind.

YOU MUST READ: 3 Surprising Reasons to Check Your Child’s Eyes Early: Advice From a Paediatrician 

What’s Happening During Eye Care Awareness Month 2025

This year, organisations like the SANCB, Department of Health and various NGOs will be running community-based campaigns to improve access to eye screenings and raise awareness.

Look out for:

• Free or low-cost vision screenings at clinics, schools and malls
• Mobile eye care units visiting rural communities
• Educational talks and workshops about early childhood eye care
• Public campaigns encouraging families to prioritise eye check-ups

These initiatives help reach those who might otherwise be excluded from regular care. If your community doesn’t yet offer these services, speak to local clinics or schools about organising a screening day.