Farsightedness (Hyperopia) in Children: Care Instructions
Overview
Children who are farsighted can see faraway objects. But they have trouble seeing things that are close. If
your child is farsighted, your child may have trouble with up-close tasks like reading or sewing.
Farsightedness occurs because your child's eye is too short and does not bend light correctly. Light entering
the eye is focused behind the retina instead of directly on the retina.
Mild farsightedness may not need treatment in children. Their eyes can often adjust to make up for the
problem. But glasses or contact lenses can help if your child's farsightedness is more than a mild problem.
Surgery may be an option in some cases.
Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all
appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your
child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.
How can you care for your child at home?
Reduce eyestrain
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Make sure that your child wears eyeglasses or contact lenses as prescribed.
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Use good light for reading or study. Use a soft background light plus a light on your child's task.
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To make it easier to read, choose large-print books. Adjust the print size on your child's computer and
online when possible.
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Have your child take frequent breaks when doing closeup work that can be hard on the eyes. Tell your child
to blink often and to close and rest when their eyes feel tired or dry.
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Avoid glare on TV and computer screens. Place the TV or computer screen where lights do not reflect on the
screen. Some children find it easier to work on a computer in a dimly lit room. Special nonglare screens
that fit over the computer screen may help.
Keep your child's eyes healthy
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Make sure your child gets eye exams as often as your doctor recommends.
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Have your child wear sunglasses to block harmful sunlight. Buy sunglasses that screen out ultraviolet A
and B (UVA and UVB) rays.
When should you call for help?
Watch closely
for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
Current as of: June 5, 2023
Content Version: 14.0
Care instructions adapted under license by your
healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask
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this information.