A local charity has highlighted the importance of early screening of children’s vision to correct impairments.

Vision Bermuda made the call for World Sight Day, which will be observed on October 10.

This year, the event will be marked under the theme Children, Love Your Eyes.

The charity said the theme put the spotlight on ensuring that children everywhere have an opportunity to love and care for their eyes.

It said: “Focusing on uncorrected vision impairments in children, this year’s campaign underscores the severe impact these issues can have on educational outcomes.

“Studies show that providing children with the proper corrective measures — like spectacles — can reduce failure rates by 44 per cent.”

The charity urged parents, caregivers and schools to participate in the global challenge by screening children’s vision and raising awareness about sight conditions that require early treatment.

Theresa Hall, the executive director of Vision Bermuda, said: “Uncorrected vision problems in children can have lifelong effects on learning and development.

“By emphasising early detection and treatment, we can help children succeed both in and out of the classroom.

“We encourage everyone to take part in this important effort on World Sight Day."

As part of this year’s observances, Vision Bermuda will host an open house event tomorrow from 11am to 3pm at its Beacon House location on the corner of Cedar Avenue and Dundonald Street.

Residents will have an opportunity to explore a variety of services and accessibility products, which are designed for individuals with low vision or blindness.

There will be demonstrations of large and small products, some of which residents can purchase.

Theresa McMordie, a vision rehabilitation specialist, will be on hand to discuss the services offered by the charity and provide insights into assistive tools and strategies for people with vision impairments.

Ms McMordie explained: “Vision Bermuda delivers vision rehabilitation programmes and services.

“Vision rehabilitation is the process of restoring functional ability and improving quality of life and independence in an individual who has lost visual function through illness or injury.

“The goal is to give blind and partially sighted people the tools they need to live they life they want to lead.

“Whether you’re personally affected by vision loss, supporting a loved one, or simply interested in learning more about accessibility, we warmly welcome you to join us.”

• For more information go towww.visionbermuda.bm or call Vision Bermuda on (441) 292-3231