The Dangers of Prolonged Screen Time

Technology has changed very rapidly in recent years, the use of electronic devices is no longer considered a luxury item but has become everyone's lifestyle. This is in line with increasing human needs, therefore technology must always develop to make it easier for everyone to meet their needs, including the need for entertainment and recreation. Of course, using TV, computers, laptops, smartphones and other gadgets connected to the internet is entertainment that is easily accessible and can provide the necessary information in a short time.

Introducing gadgets to children is certainly something that cannot be avoided in today's fast-paced technological era, especially because of children's curiosity. However, using gadgets too early or spending too much time in front of a screen is definitely not a good thing, and even worrying can have a bad impact on children. Therefore, parents must know the guidelines for allocating screen time for children.

Negative impacts due to prolonged duration of screen time, namely:

• Farsightedness/myopia

• Dry eyes

• Lack of social contact with friends

• Changes in behavior
 

The impact of high screen time can affect eye health, one of which is complaints of dry eyes. This is one of the most complained of symptoms for everyone, here are the symptoms of dry eyes we need to know:

• Dry

• A gritty feeling in the eyes

• A feeling of heat or itching

• Foreign body sensation

• Pain and redness of the eyes

Several ways to set the right and wise screen time:

• Limit social media access 30-60 minutes per day

• Spent 3-4 hours per day without screen time

• Avoid screen time at least one hour before going to bed

• Rest your eyes every 20 minutes

• Set your own screen time limits

How to set the duration of gadget usage based on age

• Age 0-2 Years

Not recommended at all

• Age 2-3 Years

30 minutes per day with educational content

• Age 3-5 Years

No more than 1 hour per day

• Age > 5 Years

Maximum 2 hours per day

• Teenagers & Adults

Maximum 4 hours per day