Vision Therapy in Centennial

Does Myopia Run in Families?

(303) 771-4221

Exploring the Hereditary Nature of Myopia

Myopia, more commonly known as nearsightedness, is a visual condition that results in blurry distance vision while nearby objects remain clear. Concerns about your child's sight often lead to the question: Does myopia run in families? Understanding the genetic aspects of myopia is crucial for proactive management.

kids in classroom


mom reading book to child

The Genetic Factor

Myopia does indeed have a genetic link. If one or both parents have myopia, the likelihood of their children developing this condition increases. When both parents have myopia, the risk is even greater. Indeed, the genetic factors contributing to myopia can pass from generation to generation.

Environmental Factors

Lifestyle choices and daily habits can significantly impact myopia development and progression. Excessive screen time, a lack of outdoor activities, and prolonged periods of near work, such as reading or studying, can increase the risk of myopia.

Children are especially susceptible to environmental factors as their visual systems are still developing. These external influences can work in tandem with genetics, shaping how myopia progresses over time.


Early Intervention is Key to Myopia Control

Knowing your family's myopia history can help you seek early intervention. Effective strategies can manage and control its progression, even with a genetic predisposition.

  • Lifestyle Adjustments

    Simple lifestyle changes, like reducing screen time and increasing outdoor activities, can reduce myopia progression and protect your child's visual health.

  • Dietary Choices

    Nutritional adjustments, such as a diet rich in eye-healthy nutrients, can support your child's vision and contribute to myopia management.

  • Regular Eye Exams

    Scheduling routine eye exams allows for early detection and timely intervention, which is crucial in managing myopia.

  • Educational Support

    Providing information and support about myopia to family and friends can raise awareness, foster understanding, and create a network of care.

Patient Reviews
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777 Reviews
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- Sep. 15, 2025
Excellent experience
- Sep. 13, 2025
Fabulous experience with this practice. They corrected the bad prescription I had received elsewhere... and I am so grateful for the dignity and kindness shown from the call for the appointment to receiving my glasses.
- Aug. 30, 2025
Dr. Kaitlyn Barkey was wonderful! Very thorough and explains everything in great detail. She actuall... y cares about her patients and that came through loud and clear. The staff was great as well and I’m so thankful I selected this office and Dr. Barkey as my new eye care provider. They did not disappoint.
- Aug. 25, 2025
Great experience! Courteous and knowledgeable staff, highly recommend. Glasses are priced a bit high... but the staff and Doctor that I saw were phenomenal.
- Aug. 20, 2025
A wonderful overall experience.
- Aug. 09, 2025
Very patient and thorough. Explain things well. Good with kids. Great selection of higher-end gla... sses frames.
- Aug. 07, 2025
I had a great experience with Dr. Barkey and her team. Dr. Barkey took the time to explain everythin... g clearly and answered all of my questions with patience and professionalism. I never felt rushed, and I appreciate her attention to detail. She is smart, kind, and personable. I highly recommend her!!
- Jul. 10, 2025
The staff is professional and friendly. Dr. Barkey takes time to explain things clearly.
- Jun. 27, 2025
Knowledgeable to le and pleasant...
- Jun. 16, 2025
Service was kind efficient. The doctor was helpful and provided a lot of information and made me fee... l comfortable. Ty woman who helped me select my glasses and sunglasses was knowledgeable, positive, and helpful. I did pay quite a bit for my new glasses, but I'm very happy with them and the best part is I can see!
- Jun. 12, 2025
Excellent experience. Professional and caring. Dr. Barkey was exceptional.
- Jun. 04, 2025
I've been going here for years. Very friendly staff and doctors.
- Jun. 03, 2025
Dr. Shimonova was very professional and patient. She answered all of my questions clearly and comple... tely.
- Jun. 02, 2025
Heavenly environment million thanks
- May. 25, 2025
EyeCare Consultants is great
- Apr. 08, 2025
They provide excellent customer service.
- Apr. 04, 2025
Great eye doc, staff, and facility!
- Apr. 01, 2025
Very professional, highly recommend
- Mar. 21, 2025
I have used EyeCare Consultants for over two decades since my PRK procedure. I have always received ... excellent care for my vision health. Despite change in ownership in 2021, I continue to experience that same level of excellence.
- Dec. 18, 2024
Dr. Barkey is wonderful. Knowledgeable an kind. My wife and I both go there and my father did as wel... l before he passed. The best place to go for eyecare in Colorado.

View All 777 Reviews

Myopia Management in Centennial

Our optometry practice in Centennial

Photograph of Katlyn Barkey
Hours
  • Monday 8:00 am - 12:30 pm
    1:30 pm - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:00 am - 12:30 pm
    1:30 pm - 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8:00 am - 12:30 pm
    1:30 pm - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 8:00 am - 12:30 pm
    1:30 pm - 5:30 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 12:30 pm
    1:30 pm - 4:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • Aetna
  • Anthem
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Medicare
  • Spectera
  • United Healthcare
  • VSP

boy in eye exam

Professional Myopia Solutions for Your Family

Understanding the hereditary aspect of myopia is the first step in addressing your concerns. Discover how our experts can help manage the risks of myopia within your family. Visit EyeCare Consultants today to explore your options and ensure a clear, bright future for your child.

(303) 771-4221