World Sight Day 2026:

5 Ways to Protect Your Eyes and Eyelids as You Age

8 October 2026 | World Sight Day

Our eyesight plays an essential role in everyday life, yet many people take eye health for granted until a problem develops.

World Sight Day, on 8 October 2026, is a global initiative that raises awareness of eye health, preventable vision impairment, and the importance of accessible eye care.

This year's campaign offers an opportunity to look beyond vision and consider the important role our eyelids play in keeping eyes healthy and comfortable.

Mr Michéal O’Rourke, Consultant Oculoplastic Surgeon, shares five ways to protect your eyes and eyelids as you age, along with the signs that may indicate a need for specialist assessment.

1. Pay Attention to Changes in Your Eyelids

As we age, the skin, muscles and supporting tissues around our eyes naturally change.

For some people, this can lead to excess upper eyelid skin, drooping eyelids or changes in the position of the lower eyelids.

While these changes are often associated with appearance, they can also affect how the eyes function.

For example, significant upper eyelid drooping may obstruct the upper field of vision, while lower eyelid malposition can cause irritation, watering and discomfort.

An assessment with an oculoplastic specialist can help determine whether these changes are purely cosmetic or affecting eye health.

2. Protect Your Eyes from UV Damage

We often remember to apply sunscreen to our faces, but the delicate skin surrounding the eyes can be overlooked.

Prolonged ultraviolet (UV) exposure can contribute to several eye conditions, including cataracts, and can increase the risk of skin cancers developing around the eyelids.

Simple protective measures include:

• Wearing sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection.

• Choosing larger or wraparound frames for additional coverage.

• Wearing a wide-brimmed hat when spending time outdoors.

• Applying suitable sun protection to the skin surrounding the eyes.

UV protection is important throughout the year, not just during the summer months.

3. Don't Ignore Persistent Watery Eyes

Watery eyes are a common complaint, particularly as we get older.

Although occasional watering may be caused by wind, allergies or environmental irritation, persistent symptoms can sometimes indicate an underlying problem.

Excessive watering, also known as epiphora, can result from blocked tear drainage channels, eyelid malposition or dry eye disease.

In some cases, the eyes may produce additional tears in response to dryness and irritation.

When watering becomes persistent or interferes with everyday activities, specialist assessment can help identify the cause and determine the most appropriate treatment.

4. Be Aware of Eyelid Lumps and Lesions

Not every lump or swelling around the eye is a cause for concern, but changes should never be automatically dismissed.

A chalazion, for example, is a common condition caused by a blocked oil-producing gland within the eyelid. Although many chalazia resolve with conservative management, some may require treatment. Other eyelid lesions can occasionally represent more serious conditions, including skin cancers.

Signs that warrant assessment include:

• A lump that continues to grow

• Persistent crusting or bleeding

• A sore that does not heal

• Loss of eyelashes in a particular area

• Changes in the appearance of an existing lesion

Early diagnosis is particularly important around the eyes, where preserving healthy tissue and normal eyelid function is essential.

5. Make Regular Eye Examinations a Priority

Regular eye examinations are an important part of maintaining good eye health at every age.

An optometrist can assess your vision and check for signs of common eye conditions, including glaucoma, cataracts and certain retinal problems.

However, it is equally important to recognise changes affecting the eyelids and surrounding structures.

Persistent eyelid swelling, drooping, irritation or excessive watering may require assessment by an oculoplastic specialist.

Seeking advice early can help establish an accurate diagnosis and prevent certain conditions from progressing.

The Important Role of Oculoplastic Surgery in Eye Health

Oculoplastic surgery is a specialist area of ophthalmology focused on the eyelids, tear drainage system, eye socket and surrounding facial structures.

Although often associated with cosmetic procedures such as blepharoplasty, oculoplastic surgery also plays an important role in protecting vision and restoring normal eyelid function.

Conditions such as entropion, ectropion, ptosis, and tear drainage obstruction can cause significant discomfort and, if left untreated, threaten eye health.

Treatment is tailored to each patient, aiming to maintain or restore function while achieving a natural appearance.

To arrange a consultation with Mr Michéal O’Rourke, please contact his clinic for further information.