What role for opticians in the visual health of children?

The importance of the role of opticians in the visual health of children is becoming increasingly clear, as demonstrated by recent data from the Visual Health Barometer carried out by OpinionWay for the Asnav. This information offers a new perspective on the engagement of opticians in the prevention and treatment of visual disorders in young people. The visual and hearing health of children plays a fundamental role in their learning, particularly in the acquisition of reading . According to the results of the 4th study by the Optic 2000 Visual and Hearing Health Observatory, it is imperative to intervene early to prevent the impact of the disorders. Opticians, you are at the forefront of action.

The growing role of opticians in the visual health of children involves prevention

Opticians are increasingly recognized for their role in preventing vision problems in children. In 2024, 11% of parents cited the influence of the optician as the main reason for their child's first visit to the ophthalmologist, compared to only 4% three years earlier. This increase highlights an increased commitment by opticians to educating parents on the importance of early detection.

The OpinionWay survey reveals that, although 76% of parents note reading difficulties in their child, only 32% of children wear glasses by the age of four years, and 4% have hearing problems detected and treated. These figures underline the crucial importance of prevention from an early age . Continuing training for opticians is therefore essential to raise awareness and effectively inform parents.

Detection and information: opticians as a key resource

In terms of detecting visual disorders, opticians also play a notable role. Around 13% of parents report that it was the optician or orthoptist who identified their child's visual problem . When it comes to information on specific conditions such as myopia, opticians are the second most trusted source after ophthalmologists, providing essential advice to 26% of families surveyed.

Experts recommend a vision check from the age of 1 for children at risk and around 3 or 4 years for all others. Late detection, after 6 years, can make certain visual defects irreversible. It is therefore crucial to act before entering CP to correct any visual or hearing abnormality, by wearing glasses or hearing aids if necessary.

Choice of sunglasses and influence of opticians

To strengthen its support for young people aged 2 to 8, Optic 2000 launched Optic 2000 Kids in 2017. This program requires that the opticians in its network undergo in-depth training. The professionals of Lissac follow the same path. These initiatives show the network's commitment to continuing training to offer the best service to families. The choice of sunglasses for children also highlights the importance of advice from opticians . Although 40% of parents consider this advice as one criterion among others, 15% of them place it at the top of their concerns. This figure suggests significant reliance on the expertise of opticians to help choose products that combine style, quality and appropriate protection.

Recent data shows that opticians are not just eyewear sellers, but vision health partners for families . Their role in prevention, detection and information continues to expand, highlighting the importance of close collaboration between opticians and other health professionals to guarantee the visual well-being of children. This reflects a gradual but significant change in parents' and healthcare professionals' perceptions of the importance of opticians in children's vision health.