Release May 25, 2011

3D Video and Children's Vision

(WGEM) -- 3D is a hot new trend. From movies to video games, the technology is changing fast.

But is it putting your child at risk?

Nintendo recently released a "third dimension" to its popular DS gaming system, one that came with a serious warning; the 3D game could ruin your child's eyes.

The latest handheld Nintendo DS recently got an upgrade, one that features 3D graphics, without the need for 3D glasses.

But the fancy effects could pose a threat to your child's vision.

The manufacturer posted a warning on its website and the 3DS box, stating the game may have "a potential impact on the growth of children's eyes."

A risk that concerns some parents, like Beth Lochbaum.

"Look how popular the first DS was when it came out, so it is a little disturbing," Beth Lochbaum, a mother, said.

Nintendo discourages any extended use of the 3DS by children 6-years-old and under to avoid a quote "adverse effect on eyesight development." But some doctors say the warning should include slightly older children as well.

"A child's eyes are still developing up to the age of eight, even some up to the age of ten," Dr. Kristie Chevalier with International Eye Care said. "The younger obviously are the most at risk than an older child."

That's why Lochbaum worries about her six-year-old daughter.

"Not something I want her to play with," Lochbaum said.

Chevalier says children who play the 3DS for hours at a time could create problems. She urges parents to look for warning signs the game is affecting your child's vision.

"If they're developing a lot of eye fatigue, strain or complain their eyes hurt, or that they just can't see clearly, then that could indicate there's a visual problem," Chevalier said.

Chevalier's number one piece of advice? Limit the amount of time your child plays with 3D video games. And if your child experiences any symptoms, schedule an eye exam.

Also, the Nintendo 3DS system does feature a switch that allows you to turn off the 3D effect and play the game in 2D.

Playing a 3D game for an extended period of time is similar to sitting in front of a computer screen all day, she says.

"Any time you're doing any sort of demand up close for long periods of time, it can definitely affect the way the eyes are focusing. So it can indicate a problem for an adult as well," Chevalier said.

Original News Story Link


< Back to News Page