January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month. Glaucoma affects between 3 and 4 million Americans and is the number two cause of preventable blindness worldwide. About 50% of patients with glaucoma are currently undiagnosed. It is sobering to think about how many of you reading this article right now currently have...

An individual's eyes can reveal a lot about them, including their mood, feelings, and even emotions. By simply looking at them, eyes can convey a warm, bright, and inviting vibe as well as a cold and repellent one – they are the window to a person’s soul. The Iris: What...

While we all know that drinking alcohol can harm our bodies, what does it do specifically to our eyes? Short-term exposure to alcohol can alter vision, but what about repeated exposure to alcohol? Are there any permanent effects that you need to worry about? People who consider themselves to be "social drinkers"...

Are you one of those people who tried contacts in the past, but had no luck? Perhaps you found them dry and uncomfortable, or your allergies made them impossible to wear?  Maybe you were unable to see as clearly compared to your glasses, or you never needed glasses but now...

Cosmetic procedures have been prominent for both women and men for years. While the popularity of certain procedures tends to decrease and incline in waves, temporary facial “improvements” like Botox injections have become and remain one of the most popular cosmetic procedures. The popularity is thanks to its noninvasiveness, and...

Hey, allergy season. Welcome back to the time of year when everyone blames almost every distress on allergies! Let us help set the record straight though, since certain symptoms are easily assumed as a seasonal allergic reaction when they can actually be a result of something worth looking into further....

Putting makeup on is fun! It can also be considered one of the most relaxing and satisfying parts of getting ready... If it is being done on time, and not in a rush, which we can admit is pretty rare. Of all the little mishaps that can take place during...

White eyes have just about the same cosmetic priority as white teeth or unblemished skin. In fact, several surveys reveal that about 30% of people initially notice eyes when they first meet someone. While you can be a generally healthy human with stained teeth and imperfect skin, your eyes can...

365 days can manifest a great deal that you might not be able to set your sights on quite yet. Don’t wait until you can't see it to believe it. Quiz yourself in a quick "This or That!" and see where you stand when it comes to maintaining your eyesight...

When the emergency is related to your eyes, consider a trip to your optometrist's office instead of the ER. Here's why.

Fall is a great time of year, but the accompanying allergens: not so much. Let’s talk causes, effects, & solutions of allergies, & how they can affect your eyes

There are several ways to combat presbyopia, and the good news is, your optometrist can help!

June brings with it, not only the first day of summer, but also National Sunglasses Day.

TotalVision Eyecare Center of Manchester Receives 2021 Best of Manchester Award Manchester Award Program Honors the Achievement MANCHESTER May, 2021 -- TotalVision Eyecare Center of Manchester has been selected for the 2021 Best of Manchester Award in the Optometrists category by the Manchester Award Program. Each year, the Manchester Award...

What does that mean for you? It means that now is the time to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Find out why.

It may surprise you to learn that contact lenses can be safely worn by children aged 8 and over. Read on to learn more about contact lenses for the younger demographic.

Contact lenses that don’t fit properly can cause discomfort and even eye damage. During a contact lens exam, your eye doctor will perform various tests to ensure you get the right prescription and the proper fit.

The older one gets, the more the eye changes and the higher the risk of developing sight-threatening conditions. Learn about why middle-aged people need reading glasses and when to visit the eye doctor.

Diabetic retinopathy is a potentially sight-threatening condition caused by high blood sugar levels in diabetics. Fortunately, your eye doctor can advise on how to manage and reduce the risk of developing it.

If you or your child is new to wearing contact lenses, read our Top 5 Tips to make the adjustment easier.

Sunglasses aren’t just for summer. Why not, you ask? Read on to find out why sunglasses are just as much “fall wear” as jackets are.

Consuming certain vitamins and nutrients can support your eye health and potentially ward off serious eye diseases and conditions. Read on to find out more!

Myopia or nearsightedness is most commonly corrected with prescription glasses or contact lenses. As children grow, their prescription often gets stronger, what we call “progressive myopia”. Our eye doctors can help.

Eye floaters are usually normal. But what causes them and when do they indicate a serious eye problem that needs emergency eye care?

Driving long distances, prolonged screen time and even reading can cause eye strain symptoms like headaches and blurry vision. Here are some eye exercises that can help you relax your eyes and find relief.

Adjusting to new eyeglasses can take time, but persistent visual or eyestrain symptoms that accompany your new eyewear could warrant a call to your optometrist.

If you wear glasses and a face mask, you’ve probably struggled with “mask fog.”  Your lenses get all misty, requiring you to wipe your eyewear throughout the day. Below are a few strategies to help you prevent your eyeglasses from fogging up when wearing a mask. But First, Why Do...

Countless people around the world wear daily disposable contact lenses or dailies. These popular single-use lenses are removed and discarded at the end of each day, and a new, fresh pair is inserted the next morning. Used properly, dailies promote eye health, and they’re comfortable and convenient.   Despite the...

TotalVision Eyecare Center of Manchester Receives 2020 Best of Manchester Award Manchester Award Program Honors the Achievement MANCHESTER May 21, 2020 -- TotalVision Eyecare Center of Manchester has been selected for the 2020 Best of Manchester Award in the Healthcare category by the Manchester Award Program. Each year, the Manchester...

January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month. What is Glaucoma? Glaucoma, a silent eye disease, is the most common form of irreversible blindness in the world. It is actually a group of diseases that causes progressive damage to the optic nerve.  Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that can lead to...

Each year during the month of January we recognize World Braille Day which gives us the opportunity to take a moment and appreciate the incredible gift that Braille has given to those who are blind or suffer from vision loss.  What is Braille? Braille is a tactile representation of letters...

Nerf Guns: Popular, Projectile... Safe? With the newest Nerf guns and blasters reigning at the top of lists for the most popular toys this holiday season, many parents are excited to surprise their kids (or their spouses) with these coveted toy weapons. There is, in fact a whole culture behind these...

Whether you live in a climate with cold winter weather or you are planning a ski trip up north, winter can be a challenge if you suffer from dry eyes. Dry, cool air, cold winds and even drier indoor heating can cause eye irritation, burning, itchiness and redness, and sometimes...

Diabetes is becoming much more prevalent around the globe. According to the International Diabetes Federation, approximately 425 million adults were living with diabetes in the year 2017 and 352 million more people were at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. By 2045 the number of people diagnosed is expected to...

Brush Up Before You Dress Up Halloween is one of the most fun times of the year for children and adults alike. When else do you get to dress up as anyone (or anything) you want, socialize with friends and eat lots of treats? Nevertheless, lurking behind those costumes and...

Regular exercise is an essential component of overall health and wellness. It is proven that exercise reduces sickness and disease; it increases strength, immunity, and mental health; and it also helps regulate bodily functions and maintain a healthy weight. Research shows that exercise can lower our risk of chronic conditions...

What Is Progressive Myopia? Nearsightedness or myopia is one of the most prevalent eye disorders worldwide and its incidence is increasing. In fact by 2050, myopia is projected to affect half of the world’s population! Many children diagnosed with nearsightedness (myopia) experience a consistent worsening of their vision as they...

An online eye test may seem like a convenient way to check your vision or get an eyeglass prescription but beware, these tests aren’t all they are chocked up to be. In fact, they may even be dangerous.  What is an online eye test really testing?  An online eye test...

Healthy eyes and good vision are essential for your child’s growth and development. In fact, learning is 80% visual, which means a child’s success in school, athletics and many other aspects of life can be impacted by poor vision. Good vision goes beyond how far you can see, and also...

It’s almost back to school time for college students and whether this is your first time away from home or you are already a pro, you want to be prepared with as much knowledge as possible to live safely on your own. This knowledge includes eye and vision safety, as...

While it may seem like a harmless action, rubbing your eyes can actually cause a lot of damage. There are a number of different reasons that people rub their eyes and for the most part, it does more harm than good. While rubbing your eyes might feel really good in...

Migraine Awareness Month: An ocular migraine is any migraine headache that involves a visual disturbance such as flashes of light, seeing stars or zigzags or the appearance of blind spots in the visual field. Ocular migraines can interfere with your ability to go about your daily tasks such as driving,...

Eye floaters are actually more common that you may think. Many people notice specks or cobweb-like images moving around in their line of vision, at some point. Some even report experiencing a "snow globe effect" as if they are swatting at many imaginary bugs. Floaters may be an annoyance, but...

Sure, sunglasses might add the final touches to your chic ensemble, but the real reason to purchase your shades is to protect your eyes from the sun. Not only does glare from the sun make it difficult to see, but the UV rays it reflects can cause permanent damage to...

Cataracts affect millions of people nationwide and as the population continues to age, the numbers keep increasing. The good news is, cataracts are often manageable and treatable. As June is Cataract Awareness Month, here are some facts you should know to help you recognize cataracts and prevent permanent vision loss. ...

Vision is a critical component to succeed as an athlete and this doesn’t just mean having 20/20 vision. There are a number of visual processes that are involved in optimal sports performance, whether you are playing a weekly little league game or competing in professional sports.   The eyes and the...

While we all know that regular eye exams can help detect warning signs of disease and prevent vision loss, many people fail to seek medical attention when there is an acute problem with the eye. In fact, only about half of Americans that are at risk for serious vision loss...

April is Women’s Eye Health Month in the USA and May is Healthy Vision month in Canada too, so let’s take the opportunity to look at some tips for maintaining eye and vision health, with a special focus on women.  Statistically, women are more at risk than men for eye...

If you want strong, healthy eyes and clear vision for life, a major step you can take is to protect your eyes from UV radiation.  Wearing proper eye protection from the sun reduces the risk of a number of eye diseases and other conditions that are caused or worsened by...

We all experience the occasional eyelid twitch, which is when the muscle of the eyelid spasms involuntarily. Usually, it comes and goes without intervention and while sure, it can be irritating, is a twitching eyelid ever something to be concerned about? An eyelid twitch, also known as a myokymia, can...

Infant Eyesight Despite nine months of growth in utero, babies are not born with fully developed eyes and vision - just like they can't walk or talk yet. Over the first few months of life, their visual systems continue to progress, stimulated by their surroundings. Babies will develop the ability...

It’s that time of the year again. Each February, the optometric community bands together to create awareness about age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD is a leading cause of vision loss for people 50 years and older; early detection plays a key role in the outcome of the disease. That’s why...

At this time of year when the sun sets early, many people are affected by night blindness. Night blindness or nyctalopia refers to difficulty seeing at night or in poor or dim lighting situations. It can be caused by a number of underlying conditions, sometimes completely benign and sometimes as a...

It’s that time of year again. January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time set aside each year to create awareness about this potentially devastating disease. The reason awareness about glaucoma is so important is because as its nickname, The Sneak Thief of Sight, describes, the disease often causes permanent...

6 Common Eye Myths Debunked   Over the centuries there have been a lot of old-wives tales circulating about eyes and vision. You know, like the one that if someone hits you on the back while your eyes are crossed they will stay that way. Unlike this example, some of...

Refocus on the Digital Age with Computer Glasses   Digital devices have impacted our world in so many positive ways, allowing us to connect, work, play and get information at the speed of light. But all of this good brings with it a measure of concern: Digital Eye Strain or...

Living With Low Vision

 

February is Low Vision and Age-Related Macular Degeneration awareness month.

Dr. Alpert is a Low Vision Specialist. Feel free to call the office with any questions.  

Low vision describes a set of conditions in which there is significant visual impairment which can not be corrected with traditional means such as glasses, contact lenses, medication or eye surgery.   Low vision includes a loss of visual acuity which can’t be corrected to better than 20/70, significant visual field loss such as tunnel vision or blind spots, legal blindness (20/200 or less visual acuity in the better eye) and almost total blindness.

While it  can affect both children and adults, low vision is most common in the elderly. Since vision is significantly impaired and can’t be corrected the condition requires significant adjustments to daily life. Here are some facts about the condition and tips for coping with it on a daily basis.

What causes low vision?

• Eye diseases such as: glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and retinitis pigmentosa
• Eye injury
• Heredity

How does low vision affect daily life?

While people with low vision are not considered to be totally blind, often the poor quality of their vision makes it incredibly challenging to complete common daily tasks including reading, writing, cooking and housework, watching television, driving or even recognizing people. The adjustment can be especially for those who suddenly lose their vision.

The good news is there are numerous resources and products available to assist individuals with low vision often by enhancing the small amount of vision that is intact.

Visual Aids

Visual aids enable millions of people who suffer from low vision to be able to function and live relatively normal lives, by maximizing their remaining eyesight. An optometrist can do a low vision eye exam and provide specialized glasses or tints to optimize vision, or recommend quality magnifiers with appropriate magnification and working distance.  Full spectrum lighting or magnifiers with an attached light source are often used to aid individuals with low vision. You can also get special lens tints, which are used to enhance contrast and reduce glare, with special coatings for specific conditions.  Other low vision aids act as guides to help the person focus on non-visual cues, such as sound or feel.

Many people unfortunately try a “trial and error” or "dollar store" readers or magnifiers when it comes to vision aids which can lead to frustration. In fact, there is a systematic approach to finding the right visual aid, which is a matter of consulting with a professional such as Dr. Alpert to determine what works for each individual and his daily needs. TotalVision Eyecare Center of Manchester is one of the the best places to obtain quality, optical and non-optical aids to assist with your low vision.

If you or a loved one suffers from low vision, here are some ways to make life with low vision easier

1. Adjust Lighting. Ensure that your home is well lit. This may require some trial and error with different lights and voltages to determine what works best for you.
2. Use a magnifier. There is a vast selection of magnifiers available, ranging from hand-held to stand magnifiers. Binoculars and spectacle mounted magnifiers are also an option.
3. Your optometrist or low vision specialist can recommend specialized lens tints for certain conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa or cataracts, which enhance vision or reduce light sensitivity.
4. Use large print books for reading. Alternatively, try digital recordings or mp3s.
5. Make use of high contrast for writing. Try writing in large letters with a broad black pen on a white piece of paper or board.
6. Add a high-contrast stripe on steps (bright color on dark staircase, or black stripe on light stairs) can prevent falls in people with low vision, and may enable those who suffer to remain independent in their home.
7. Find out what other technology is available to help make your life simpler.

If you or a loved one has low vision, don’t despair. Be sure to consult with Dr. Alpert about the best course of action to take to simplify life with low vision.

School is starting: Do you know how to set up your child’s homework and reading spot? Reading and writing are some of the most fundamental skills that your child to facilitate learning in school, so it is important to make sure that your child's eyes are comfortable when they are...

Summer vacation is well under way, but did you know that even when your child is out of the classroom, vision problems can have an impact on his/her daily activities? Look out for these 4 warning signs during the summer months – they could be a sign of vision difficulties...

Have you ever wondered what your eyes do when you finally close them after a long day of visual processing and stimulation? Let's take a closer look at what happens behind your closed lids when your head hits the pillow. Firstly, once your eyes are closed, they do continue to...

The heat of long summer days is nearly upon us. As the sun's rays intensify and people spend more time outdoors in the sunshine it is very important to be aware of the potential damage exposure to the sun can have on your eyes. May is UV Awareness month. Here...

It can be devastating for a tween or teen to be told he or she needs to wear glasses, especially if it is sudden. Many tweens and teenagers are concerned about how glasses will affect their appearance, whether they will be made fun of (which unfortunately is a legitimate concern...

Spring is on the way. Soon the sun will be shining, the flowers blooming and allergy season will be upon us. If you have allergies, your eyes are often affected by the high pollen count along with other allergens floating in the fresh spring air. Tree pollens in April and...

Your eyes communicate much more than you may realize, in fact they play a huge role in your non-verbal communication. Consciously or not, the way you move your eyes, look at someone, blink or make eye contact can say a lot about what you are thinking and feeling. Here's a...

There are so many people who spend hours a day, if not most of the day working on a computer or mobile device. They usually do so without taking notice of the effect this has on their bodies. Using a computer or handheld device for extended amounts of time can...

It's been said that your eyes are the window to your soul. Well, research is showing that your eyes are a window to a lot more than your thoughts and emotions; it can be an indicator of your overall health.  A study by UnitedHealthcare entitled, “Impact of Eye Exams in...

February is low vision awareness month. Low vision is a condition in which an individual suffers significant vision loss that can't be fully corrected with glasses, contact lenses, medication or surgery. Low vision can affect both children and adults, but is more common in the elderly, and requires significant adjustments...

Your child's first pair of glasses will make an important difference in his or her ability to see and interact with the surrounding world. However, a new pair of glasses can also present a big adjustment for both parents and kids as you get used to a new look and...

7 Facts You Should Know About Glaucoma Glaucoma, which refers to a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, is often called 'the silent thief of sight'. This nickname evolved because the disease creeps up unnoticed in its early stages, causing no pain and few, if any symptoms....

The New Year is a time to start fresh and renew our commitment to health, happiness and success. It’s important to include eye and vision health and safety in these resolutions. Here are the top six ways you can make your eyes and vision a priority this year. Schedule a...

In observance of the X-Mas Holiday, our office will be closed on Tuesday December 24th and Wednesday Decemeber 25th 2013. We will re-open Thursday December 26 th 2013. Have a Merry X-Mas.
In case of an eye emergency , please call our live answering service at 860-649-3311.

The holiday season is on our doorstep. With technology so much a part of our lives, the easy go-to gifts for kids often include an enormous array of hand-held video devices and home gaming systems. Did you know that after extensive use these games can be harmful to children’s eyes...

Diabetes affects people of all ages, races and genders.  An estimated 25.8 million Americans or 8.3 percent of the population suffer from the disease, according to data published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2011. In fact, diabetic eye disease is the leading cause of new cases...

If you wear contact lenses, you probably know the hygiene routine you should follow when removing your lenses: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them on a clean, lint free cloth. Remove the lens from your eye and clean the lens immediately (if you wear multi-use...

Did you forget to put on your sunglasses today? Are you constantly sitting in front of a computer screen without taking breaks to look away? Maybe you also skipped your yearly eye exam, again. These are just some of the things we tend to overlook when it comes to our...

As Halloween approaches and costume planning gets more serious, many consider the use of novelty or costume contact lenses as a way to add that extra flair. Whether you are dressing up as a cat, a vampire, or looking for something fun that glows in the dark, dressing up your...

Many travelers experience dry eyes after extended travel by air. The dry environment of a temperature- and pressure-controlled air plane cabin can take its toll on your eyes. The good news is there are a number of steps you can take to reduce the uncomfortable symptoms associated with travelers’ dry...

Just because the summer is coming to an end, doesn’t mean that we have to say goodbye to the swimming pool. Whether it means a nice refreshing dip on a warm fall afternoon or a winter swim in an indoor pool, swimming is a great activity for both fun and...

The use of technology has become commonplace in the classroom. So much so that today’s generation of students, from kindergarten to university, navigates computers, smartphones and tablets all the time.  Many schools have even implemented the use of smart boards and bring your own device (BOYD) programs. However, as amazing...

For adults over the age of 65, the right pair of vision correcting glasses can literally be a life saver. Seniors aged 65 and up are at increased risk of falling, which is the leading cause of injury, injury-related death, and hospitalization for this age group. According to the Centers...

It's not too soon to get your child's vision checked before school.
SAVE 20% off all children's eyewear.*
Expires September 30, 2013.

*No other discounts apply

The first weekend of August (August 3rd and 4th) has been marked as the 2nd annual Great Glasses Play Day. The event, which first launched in 2012 was created for parents, eye care professionals, educators and children who wear glasses or have other vision challenges to celebrate and create awareness...

To ensure that your eyes remain healthy, it is essential to protect them from injury and to take proper care measures if an injury has occurred. As July is Eye Injury Prevention Month, here are a number of practical first aid tips to remember if you or anyone you know...

Eye charts of different variations have become a standard in vision screenings and eye exams. One of the most familiar charts associated with vision is the Snellen eye chart, designed by Dutch ophthalmologist Hermann Snellen in 1862 to measure visual acuity- how well you can see at various distances. Although...

Cataracts, one of the most common causes of blindness, develop when the lens of the eye, located behind the iris and pupil, becomes opaque or cloudy. A cataract can result in loss of vision as it prevents light from passing into your eye and focusing on the retina. While cataracts...

Did you know that age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of vision loss and blindness among adults aged 50 and above? AMD occurs when the part of the retina responsible for your sharp central vision, the macula, begins to deteriorate. Central vision is the visual field...

Do your sunglasses have what it takes to protect your eyes? As the summer heats up and people spend more time outdoors, it is very important to wear UV blocking eyewear to protect against exposure to ultraviolet rays that can cause damage to your eyes. Damage caused by UV from...

In observance of Memorial Day TotalVision Eyecare Center of Manchester will be closed Saturday May 25th and will re-open Tuesday May 28th. In case of emergency please call 860-649-3311.
Have an enjoyable weekend.

Up to 25% off selected sunglasses! (some restrictions apply. Maui Jim's not eligible for discount. Not valid with other insurances or discounts). Have you noticed how intense the sun can be. This is due to glare and reflected light making visual comfort levels almost unbearable. Polarized lenses eliminate glare and reflected light dramatically improving comfort and visual performance. PRINT THIS PAGE AND PRESENT AT VISIT.
Expires August 31, 2013

Women's eyes are regularly exposed to potential irritants through the use of cosmetics. As eye shadow, mascara and eye liner can breed unseen dirt and bacteria, it is vital to ensure that the products you use to apply and remove your makeup are hygienic to prevent irritation that can cause...

Did you know that your dietary choices have an impact on your eye health and vision? Opting for appetizing food that at the same time provides you with all the nutrients that are essential for preserving your vision, is taking a major step towards minimizing the risk of eye disease...

Spring is right around the corner, as the winter begins to wind down and the fresh, warmer air begins to rear its head. Unfortunately for many, it's often hard to enjoy nature's blooming beauty as the warmer weather also brings about the onset of itchy, watery eyes that come with...

We all know how frustrating it can be trying to see clearly through a smudged pair of glasses; clean lenses can really make a world of difference. While it may not be something that you pay much attention to, the way you clean your lenses can also make a difference,...

Dry eyes are a common problem for many individuals particularly during the winter months when exposure to dry air and whipping wind is increased. However, if you are suffering from dry eyes that just won't go away, you may have what is known as Dry Eye Syndrome - a condition...

Ski Goggles are an essential part of proper eye protection when participating in winter sports. In order to choose the best winter sports eyewear for your needs it is first important to know what risks are in the first place. UV protection UV danger is just as much a problem...

Are you aware that being diabetic puts you at risk for serious eye damage? Diabetes is the main cause of loss of sight in adults under 75 years old according to the NIH. One of the risks of diabetes is when the retina is damaged by an increase in pressure...

Wednesday November 14, 2012 is World Diabetes Day.

If you are someone with astigmatism and you think you can't wear contacts, you're mistaken. Contact lenses are actually a method of correcting the condition. An eye with astigmatism has a differently shaped cornea (football-shaped, unlike a normal cornea, which is spherical), and that means that light entering your eye...

During your eye exam, you may have had a doctor shine a beam of light into your eye, and hold various lenses in front of it. But why? This is one way eye doctors test the refractive error of your eye, and it's known as a retinoscopy exam. Whether you're...

To our patients who have appointments on Tuesday, October 30, 2012: the office will be closed in the morning until noon. If conditions worsen, this may change. Please check back here, on our Facebook page or on NBC news for further updates. 

Take a look around- you will probably find that most people - even kids - are using mobile devices. It's hard not to acknowledge that these devices are wonderful, because they let us stay connected whenever we need to be. However because these devices have little screens, most people usually...

Many people begin to notice problems with reading small print and seeing close objects during their 40s. This condition is known as presbyopia. Fortunately, this doesn't mean that people who already have prescription eyeglasses to tend to their problems with distance vision need to own two pairs of glasses and...

Amblyopia, also called lazy eye, is commonly seen in children. It comes about when the brain turns off or suppresses vision in one eye. Vision might be suppressed if a child can't see well through one eye because of nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism, or something else that's blocking clear sight...

Do you have an eye exam coming up? There are a few things you should tell our eye doctors to help make sure your exam is a useful one. Because vision can be affected by seemingly unrelated changes in your body, you'll need to inform us of any changes you...

Save up to 40% off selected eyewear frames. No other offers or plans apply. Ask for details.

It's happened to all of us: there's a blackout and you need to locate a flashlight or the fuse box. You notice that it's difficult to see for a couple of moments before the room becomes visible again. This process is known as ''dark adaptation''. Night vision requires a number...

TotalVision Eyecare Center of Manchester will be closed Saturday September 1, 2012.

As you reach your mid-to-late forties, you may start to notice that you have some trouble with reading. Seeing clearly things that are up close is a visual function that weakens as you age. But why is this so? With age, your eye's lens is likely to become more rigid,...

Buying the correct toys with eye safety in mind is a concern for all parents. How do we select toys and activities that keep our kids' eyes safe? Infants are born with only semi-formed vision. Few things stimulate a child's visual development more easily than toys and activities that encourage...

Well, here we are again. Moms and dads all over are going shopping for bags and books, making sure their kids have all the gear they need for the upcoming school year. And if you haven't already taken care of it, it's also the perfect chance to take your child...

Too often, we meet clever children who love camp and extracurricular activities, but just don't feel the same way about school. You may be relieved to know that he or she may be suffering from a hidden vision issue that effects learning. It's known as Convergence Insufficiency (CI). In short,...

We've all heard the expressions twenty-twenty vision and visual acuity. As frequently used as these terms may be, do people really know their meaning? When you have a proper understanding of these terms, you will know why an eye care professional needs you to do more than simply read from...

Have you thought about getting an updated look for your eyes? FreshLook® offers a vast palette of colored contact lenses, which allow you to slightly enhance or radically change your natural eye color. This cutting edge line of contact lenses includes such a large number of choices, that you'll be...

Inflamed eyelids, also known as blepharitis, is something that many people suffer from at some point during their lives. It's a common eyelid inflammation, sometimes linked to a bacterial eye infection, some types of skin conditions, like acne, or dry eyes. Often, symptoms include itching, burning, redness, the feeling of...

Are you someone who leaves your disposable contact lenses in for too long? It's a pretty accepted fact that lots of things are better when they're fresh. It's helpful to know that the same rule is also applicable to your contacts. It's not a good idea to leave them in...

In the United States, this month is Cataract Awareness Month. Have you been informed that cataracts are the most common source of deteriorating vision among adults aged 55 and older? More so, more than 50% of the population 65 or older have at least some cataract development. As reported by...

Everyone is regularly exposed to UV rays. However, the possible risks of many years of exposure to these harmful rays are not often thought about, to a point where many barely take enough action to shield their eyes, even when they're planning on being outside for many hours. Overexposure to...

It's May, and that means that it's Healthy Vision Month. When was the last time you had a comprehensive eye exam? Getting your eyes tested regularly is one of the most effective steps you can take to make sure your vision remains healthy. During the procedure, your eye care professional...

One of the most reputable lens manufacturers, Transitions® Optical, have just launched an exciting product as part of their comprehensive range. It's called the Transitions® Vantage™ lens. Transitions® Optical has added a great new feature to their impressive light adapting lens with the addition of groundbreaking variable polarization. Glare reflecting...

In patients, whether young or old, sometimes poor vision can be due to a few conditions including changes in the body or defects in the eye or visual system, eye diseases, side effects of medication or eye injuries. Commonly, people also suffer from visual disturbances resulting from aging or eye...

It's April, which is Women's Eye Health and Safety Month. Women go through various stages throughout their lives, and each can impact vision differently. Eye disease among women is being diagnosed in increasing numbers, more notably in older women. In fact, studies indicate that most women going through middle age...

When the spring arrives, as well as often nicer weather, comes an increase in the danger of sports related eye injuries. Each year, many children and adults suffer eye injuries as a result of sport play that could easily be avoided with suitable defense. Wearing proper eye protection while playing...

Good eyesight is necessary for road safety. Actually, safe driving relies on a combination of a number of different visual abilities like distance and near vision, peripheral vision, seeing in limited light and color vision, to name some examples. Being able to see well into the distance is very important...

March is Workplace Vision Wellness Month, says Prevent Blindness American (PBA). The purpose of this initiative is to teach corporations and their employees about the importance of eye wellness, with advice on how to prevent vision-impairing eye mishaps. Each day, people are inflicted by job related eye injuries that demand...

The cornea that surrounds your pupil and iris is, under perfect circumstances, round. As light hits your eye from all angles, part of the job of your cornea is to focus that light, aiming it to your retina, right in the anterior portion of your eye. What is the result...

Conjunctivitis, also called pink eye, is one of the most frequently encountered eye diseases, particularly when it comes to children. This condition can be caused by a virus, bacteria or even allergies to chlorine in pools, pollen, and ingredients found in cosmetics, or other chemicals, which touch the eyes. Some...

We are currently in the midst of age related macular degeneration (AMD) and low vision month. Age related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the primary causes of vision loss in those aged 65 and above. AMD is characterized by a deterioration of the macula of the retina which functions...

Contact lens wearers practice proper eye care. A study conducted by Bausch & Lomb in August revealed that a large number of people were using dangerous chemicals in place of lens solution to soak their lenses. Substances such as baby oil, beer, coke, petroleum jelly, lemonade, fruit juice, butter as...

Winter time often leads to an increase in cases of dry eye syndrome because of cold and dry air conditions.

Winter has officially arrived, which means in some locations stinging winds and frigid rains and sometimes snow are also on their way. Most of us wouldn't ever think of leaving the house without a coat in icy climates; nevertheless unfortunately, far too many people don't think to take their sunglasses....

Since January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, in this article we would like to spread the word about the importance of early diagnosis of glaucoma. Glaucoma is the term for a category of ocular disorders that cause damage to the optic nerve, which may be a precursor to a permanent...

Visit your Manchester, CT Optometrist to Learn More About Treatment Options Presbyopia is a visual impairment that comes with age in which objects at a close range, such as newspapers, books or sewing, become blurred. As people worldwide are reaching older ages, a significant number of individuals are developing the...

Holiday season is upon us and we all know what that means, dolls, radio controlled airplanes, and Leapster Explorers. Well intentioned aunts and uncles love surprising the children with the coolest toys to start off the New Year. It is important that family members teach relatives about the restrictions about...

As the year's end comes near, so does the end of your flex spending dollars. If flex spending doesn't strike a familiar chord you may not be signed up for an FSA (or flex spending account) but you might want to check your insurance plan to make sure. If you...

Contact our Manchester, CT Optometry Practice for a consultation

Are you aware that diabetes is the dominant agent of blindness in men and women of all ages? If not, you are not alone. In the past four years alone, over 4 million men and women in North America afflicted with diabetes were found to have blindness caused by diabetes....

Amblyopia or lazy eye is the lack of central vision development caused by the inability of both eyes to function in unison. With the majority of occurrences of ambylopia the actual eyes are usually healthy however visual acuity cannot be achieved by just glasses. If not treated lazy eye can...

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  Ever question why 20/20 is the benchmark for ''perfect'' eyesight and what it actually stands for? 20/20 vision is a phrase to express a normal level of clarity of vision also known as visual acuity determined from 20 feet away from the object. In other words someone with such...

Timothy Becker interviewed Dr. Lance Alpert . Read the interview as pulished in The Manchester Patch

 

  As the end of summer approaches, many individuals start to suffer from seasonal eye allergies such as hay fever. Above sneezing and a stuffy or runny nose, symptoms that affect the eyes are often the primary source of discomfort. Eyes are often itchy, puffy, and red and often sting...

  Halloween is a night for fun, parties and getting dressed up but you should take some precautions so it doesn't end in some scary damage to your eyes. Over the past few years, decorative contacts have been increasingly becoming popular particularly with teenagers and young adults and the trend...

  Findings from the American Optometric Association show that above seventy percent of the American citizens that sit every day from a computer monitor (which is over 140 million individuals) experience computer vision syndrome or eye fatigue. Prolonged computer use can cause eye fatigue and impact typical vision processes in...

See Dr. Lance Alpert on TV...

  In recognition of Home and Sports Eye Safety Month, this post will focus on ways to keep your house eye safe particularly for kids. It's important to take the earliest opportunity to guarantee your house doesn't pose any series dangers to your children's eyes. Naturally, kids are born with...

For those who wear contacts a few precautions should be taken when applying makeup. Here are a few professional pointers on how to be sure you keep your eyes beautiful and healthy. Which Makeup Are Best for your Eyes? First of all, we advise you buy only cosmetics that are...

If you have ever witnessed an unfortunate encounter between sunblock and eyes, you know firsthand just how painful it can be. In fact, someone who has experienced a severe case may say that it is a good alternative to carrying around mace or pepper spray. It can take hours before...

We are proud to celebrate with Mary , her 25 years of improving patients lives and vision.

Many individuals aren't aware that cataracts affect approximately 20.5 million Americans over the age of 40. In truth, more than 50% of senior citizens have some amount of cataracts. What is a cataract? Cataracts occur when the ocular lens becomes clouded. This prevents the passage of light needed for eyesight....

It's that season again, when the days begin to get shorter, the weather a bit chillier, and kids across the country return to the classroom. Now's the time to make sure your kids' eyesight is satisfactory. Healthy eyesight is crucial to the learning process and a child's success in school....

No teenager likes to be caught wearing something that makes them stand out, and in the case of a lot of adolescents, eyeglasses sometimes feel that way. Young adults balk at the very thought of wearing glasses and coming across ''uncool''. As opposed to glasses, children and teens that opt...

Eye injuries come in many shapes and sizes, some more serious than others. Some might require emergency action and immediate care by an optometrist, while others can be dealt with at home. Read this guide to typical eye injuries, to determine your next move in case of an eye emergency....

When we have healthy eyes, it's normal to forget about the importance of taking preemptive steps such as an eye exam. However, early diagnosis of eye disease is critical to maintaining healthy vision and eyes. And all it requires is an eye exam. A significant number of eye and vision...

It’s official - summer has arrived and it’s time to protect your eyes from the sun and other warm weather dangers. Here are some pointers on remaining safe in the sun: Make sure your glasses offer 100% protection from UV rays. If your shades don’t guard against 100% of UV...

Are you aware that annual statistics show that approximately 40,000 sports-related eye injuries are serious enough to require emergency room treatment? This is an eye accident every 780 seconds! Eye Care experts agree that 90% of the accidents would have been easily avoided by using protective eyewear. More often than...

We have all heard that carrots improve night vision, but is this really true? Eye care professionals will tell you that carrots can't prevent you from needing eye glasses. However, they are rich in beta-carotene, a vitamin that is very good for your eye health and therefore ingesting foods rich...

  The majority of Americans are familiar with the threats of Ultraviolet (UV) radiation to your skin, (such as sunburn and skin cancer) and the need for using sunscreen and avoiding direct contact with the sun particularly during the blazing summer months. What is less known is that UV and...

  Many find it somewhat baffling navigating the contact lens care section of some supermarkets. Nevertheless as daunting as this can be, it's essential to understand proper lens care. Failure to properly care for your contact lenses can lead to a variety of eye problems including some that may cause...

  While soft contacts are most often used, a second, lesser-known brand of contact lens materials exists: rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, also referred to oxygen permeable lenses. In reality, GP lenses involve more modern technology than soft lenses, which last longer, allow finer vision quality, and offer increased durability....

Do you have red eyes, itchy eyes or watery eyes? If yes, you may be suffering from pollen-induced eye allergies. For many of us, March begins eye allergy time, which means uncomfortable symptoms such as itchy eyes, watery eyes or stinging, red eyes. Seasonal eye allergies are largely due to...

Even though you may refer to winter as the rainy time of year due to the rain and snow, the atmosphere is really a lot dryer in the colder months, which can cause your eyes to be irritated more easily. Our optometry staff can help you find the most effective...

This month has been announced age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and low vision awareness month. AMD is the number one cause of blindness for individuals age 65 and over. Macular degeneration often results in low vision, a term optometrists use to refer to major visual impairment that cannot be helped by...

In order to increase awareness about the ''silent blinding diseases,'' January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month. Glaucoma is the leading source of avoidable blindness, accounting for 9%-12% of all cases of blindness in the United States and effecting nearly 70 million people worldwide. Due to the fact that glaucoma has...

Yep, it's true. Sunglasses are not only a vital accessory in the sunny season. While most people are aware of the damage the sun poses to our eyes in the summer, how many of us recognize that it is essential to take precautions during the winter as well? In truth,...

TotalVision Eyecare Winter Eyewear Savings
Print this Ad and bring it to our office to save $35 on replacement eyeglass lenses, or $80 on a complete pair of eyeglasses in our current inventory. This offer cannot be combined with any other discounts or plan. Offer expires March 31, 2011.

Dr. Lance Alpert was recently quoted in the Contact Lens Spectrum magazine...

Dr. Alpert was interviewed on the topics of 3D movies and 3D tv, as well as the dangers of wearing Circle Contact lenses. (click arrow to listen)

See Dr. Alpert's screen debut.....

New Options to Look Good and See Better

TotalVision Eyecare Center is pleased to announce that they are now carrying Ed Hardy Eyewear and Ed Hardy Sunglasses. $40 off any Ed Hardy eyeglass or Ed Hardy sunglass through March 31, 2010.
No other discounts or Vision Plans apply.

Now available in Transitions and Sunglasses!!!!

We are excited to be the first eyecare office in the Hartford area to have an iZon Aberrometer. We are now able to offer clearer and crisper vision than previously attainable with conventional eyeglasses in CLEAR, TRANSITIONS AND SUNGLASSES. Visit www.izonlens.com

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