VOKASI NEWS – The increasing use of digital devices in daily activities has brought new challenges to eye health. Recognizing this issue, students from the Diploma III Nursing Program, Faculty of Vocational Studies, Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), organized an eye health education program. The activity was held for residents of Perumtas 3 Block K.8/04, Kepuh Kemiri, Tulangan, Sidoarjo, on Friday, April 17, 2026.
The community service activity was attended by 16 participants, predominantly housewives of productive age. The program aimed to enhance public knowledge about the importance of maintaining eye health and identifying risk factors for visual impairment. It also encouraged participants to adopt healthy habits in the use of digital devices.
The head of the organizing committee, Nino Gilang Samudra, explained the background of the educational program. The increasing intensity of gadget usage was identified as one of the main reasons for its implementation.
“Maintaining eye health does not require complicated measures. Simple habits such as following the 20-20-20 rule, adjusting screen lighting appropriately, and undergoing regular eye examinations can help prevent visual problems from an early stage,” he stated.
Interactive Educational Approach
The educational session was delivered through an interactive lecture. Posters and leaflets were also used to help participants understand the information more easily. In addition, the students introduced an educational game called “Spin Wheel: Myth or Fact.” The game encouraged participants to distinguish between myths and facts related to eye health in a fun and engaging manner.
The activity was highly interactive. Participants not only listened to the presentation but also actively engaged in discussions about common eye-related complaints. These included eye fatigue, dry eyes caused by prolonged screen exposure, and effective ways to maintain eye health through healthy lifestyle practices and balanced nutrition.
To assess the effectiveness of the program, participants completed both pre-tests and post-tests. The evaluation results demonstrated an increase in the average knowledge scores following the educational session. These findings indicate that the program successfully improved participants’ understanding of visual impairment prevention. The results also highlight the importance of maintaining good eye health.
Promoting Healthy Behavioral Changes
Beyond increasing knowledge, the program was also designed to encourage the adoption of healthier daily habits. Participants were encouraged to limit screen time and practice the 20-20-20 rule. They were also advised to maintain an appropriate viewing distance when using digital devices and consume foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, to support optimal eye health. (Yuwono et al., 2025; Sirait et al., 2024).
Participants responded very positively to the activity. Many reported gaining new insights into simple yet effective ways to care for their eyes that they had not previously known. Their enthusiasm was evident through their active participation in both the discussion sessions and the educational game.
Through this community service initiative, students of the Faculty of Vocational Studies, Universitas Airlangga, applied their nursing knowledge directly within the community. The program also contributed to raising public awareness about the importance of maintaining eye health in the digital era. Continuous educational efforts such as this are expected to promote healthier lifestyles. They are also expected to help minimize the risk of visual impairment from an early age.
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Writers: Nino Gilang Samudra, Napsiatul Ulum, Ussy Rahmasari, Muhammad Angga Bakti Maida
Supervisor: Dr. Hafna Ilmy Muhalla, S.Kep., Ns., M.Kep., Ns., Sp.Kep.M.B.
Editor: Vioretha (Tim Vokasi Branding)
