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Vision screenings are designed to check eyesight, or sharpness of vision.

Sharpness of vision or visual acuity is recorded as a fraction, e.g. 20/20.  This means that a person can read a line of type standing 20 feet (or six meters) from an eye chart.

Vision screenings are done to separate those with and without possible vision problems. Screening results may indicate a potential need for further assessment. Vision screening is not a substitute for a complete eye and vision evaluation by an eye doctor.

Lions Clubs Can Help
Lions clubs often conduct free vision screenings for children and adults. Some Lions districts have their own mobile van for vision screenings. In other instances, clubs arrange with local hospitals or health departments for an eye care professional to perform the screenings. Lions who are eye care professionals may also perform vision screenings.

Children should have their vision tested at age three.  Indicators of vision problems in children may include:

• attempts to brush away blurred vision
• blinking more than usual
• rubbing eyes frequently
• squinting when focusing on distant objects
• frowning excessively or tilting of the head from one side
• stumbling over small objects
• sensitivity to light
• red, swollen, or encrusted eyelids
• recurring sties in the eyes
• inflamed or watery eyes

More information about eye health and various eye conditions can be found at: the American Optometric Association and The Canadian Association of Optometrists or the professional association of optometrists or opthalmalogists in your area.

Learn more about InfantSEE, a USA public health program, which provides a comprehensive infant eye assessment within the first year of life as a no cost public health service.

For More Information
Health and Children's Services
Lions Clubs International
300 W. 22nd Street
Oak Brook, Illinois 60523-8842 USA
E-mail: programs@lionsclubs.org