While many women recognize that menopause can affect sleep and mood, fewer connect the transition with changes in their eye health, according to a new global survey from Johnson & Johnson.
The survey of 6,000 women across the United States, United Kingdom, Brazil, South Korea, Japan, and China found 40% associate eye changes with the menopause transition. Simultaneously, 90% said seeing clearly and comfortably helps them feel confident, capable, or like themselves.
Johnson & Johnson released the findings during Menopause Awareness Month as part of a collaboration with actress, entrepreneur, and menopause advocate Naomi Watts. The American Optometric Association (AOA) is also supporting the initiative.
Reporting Symptoms but Not Seeking Care
Among respondents, 66% reported experiencing dry, gritty, or irritated eyes, while 60% experienced blurred vision. However, only 18% had discussed these changes with an eye care professional.
Although 75% of respondents had taken action to manage changes associated with midlife, just 18% had booked an annual eye exam as part of that routine. Among women who had not sought help for vision changes, 31% reported using a phone flashlight to read a menu or other workarounds, including enlarging text or holding reading material farther away.
“We’re talking more openly about menopause, but eye health is still too often left out,” Watts says. “I want women to know they don’t have to quietly work around changes like dry eyes or blurry vision.”
Encouraging Eye Health Conversations
According to Johnson & Johnson, midlife vision changes occurring around the menopause transition can include dry or irritated eyes, blurry near vision, headaches, and the need to hold reading material farther away.
Johnson & Johnson’s campaign encourages women to notice changes in vision, schedule comprehensive eye exams, and discuss menopause-related health changes with their eye care professionals.
“A comprehensive eye exam and an open dialogue with your doctor of optometry can help women understand the changes they may be experiencing, identify eye health concerns they may not notice on their own, and get the care they need to see and feel their best,” says Teri K. Geist, OD, AOA president.