Vision health has far-reaching implications for your wellness as a whole. Chronic illnesses can manifest in the eyes before even becoming noticeable in other parts of the body. Not to mention, impaired vision can cause significant obstacles in daily life.  

It might surprise you to learn that vision impairment affects over two billion folks across the globe. But in almost half of these cases, the issue could have been preventable with the right eye care interventions (World Health Organization). Maintaining your vision health should not be complicated or cost prohibitive—that’s where Only Eyes Optical Boutique comes in.  

This local business makes eye care accessible through exceptional service tailored to your wellness needs, along with best-in-class eyewear to suit your budget. In this month’s Community Spotlight, I chatted with Diana Reason, the owner of Only Eyes Optical Boutique, to learn more about her personal and intentional approach to sustained vision health.   

Natural Awakenings: What products and services do you offer at Only Eyes Optical Boutique? 

Diana Reason: At Only Eyes Optical, we offer personalized, one-on-one service with a licensed Optician, thorough eye exams with our Board-Certified Optometry Physician, an extensive selection of high-quality eyewear, and precise contact lens fittings. We also welcome outside prescriptions, and we’ll help you find the right eyewear based on that prescription.  

NA: What makes your approach different from other more mainstream eyecare specialists? 

Reason: We will guide you in selecting the perfect eyewear, tailored to your personal lifestyle and specific visual needs. Our extensive inventory features a diverse range of styles in all sorts of designs, sizes, colors, and shapes to accommodate all budgets. Everyone is different with various needs, tastes, and preferences. In a world of sameness, we make it easy to discover unique eyewear fashion that reflects your own distinct personality.   

NA: Why is the early detection of vision concerns important for overall health maintenance? 

Reason: Comprehensive eye exams can spot early signs of health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or certain types of cancer, which otherwise might not be visible or detectable through other means. Serious eye diseases, such as glaucoma or age-related macular degeneration, can also progress slowly and without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss occurs. Early detection from regular exams allows for a timely treatment intervention, potentially slowing vision loss—or preventing it entirely.  

NA: How can folks prioritize eyecare and protect their vision health in the course of daily life? 

Reason: Whenever you’re outside (no matter the time of year), be sure to wear sunglasses with quality lenses that block out 99–100 percent of harmful UVA and UVB rays. Eat a balanced, nourishing diet with a variety of foods rich in antioxidants and nutrients. Vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, are particularly beneficial for vision health. Drink enough water to lubricate the eyes and prevent chronic dryness. Quit smoking, as this behavior can increase the risk of developing serious eye conditions. Finally, consult with an eye doctor as soon as possible if you notice blurriness, light sensitivity, or double vision, or other abnormal changes.  

Only Eyes Optical Boutique is located at 6541 Superior Avenue, Sarasota. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. To schedule an appointment, call 941-444-7984 or email [email protected]. For more information, visit https://www.onlyeyesopticalboutique.com/