Vision Therapy in Jefferson City

Does Myopia Run in Families?

(573) 635-1313

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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- Aug. 20, 2025
Great service, knowledgeable staff, and no long wait time before being seen.
- Aug. 18, 2025
I love eyes on Missouri!! it is one of my favorite places to get eye glasses. the eye doctor does ... an outstanding job examining my eyes!! they have a huge selection or variety of glasses to choose from with various brand names like Ray Ban, Nike, Oakley, and many more. the ease of scheduling an appointment is very easy. and their staff and professionals are very kind and courteous and respectful. their eye glasses are very excellent and high quality!! they accept most insurances, but you should check with them first before you purchase any glasses so you know what you have to pay out of your own pocket and get everything squared away. Eyes on Missouri is definitely one of the best places to get eye glasses that suite your needs in Jefferson City, Missouri!!
- Aug. 16, 2025
Very friendly Working with me on my order. Thank you 😊
- Aug. 11, 2025
Everyone from the receptionist to the optometrist to the ladies who help you pick your glasses at th... e end is wonderful. Everyone is so nice and so helpful, friendly and non judgmental. We love everyone at this place and really couldn't ask for better.
- Aug. 11, 2025
Everyone there is very friendly. Wait time has never been very long.
- Aug. 07, 2025
Dr.Zahn treats my kids with kindness and respect every single time!!! Best eye doctor!!!
- Jul. 28, 2025
Dr. Zane and the staff of Eyes on Missouri are both knowledgeable and friendly.
- Jul. 18, 2025
My technician here was great! Friendly, knowledgeable, patient, budget-conscious and very sincere in... her efforts to ensure that I was 100% satisfied with my new glasses.
- Jun. 29, 2025
Dr. Zahn is on top of his game! Great, fast first experience with no wait and he was able to answer ... all of my questions in detail!
- Jun. 23, 2025
Everyone was kind and very helpful!
- Jun. 20, 2025
Awesome, friendly and knowledgeable doctors and staff!
- May. 30, 2025
Great doctors and staff
- May. 26, 2025
I have had great service and care with the team at Eyes on Missouri! They are always there when I ne... ed them! Great job!!
- May. 23, 2025
I always experience a positive visit when I am at Eyes on Missouri. Great staff. Knowledgeable and f... riendly optometrists. I highly recommend this business for eye care needs. The location is amazing. A lot of toom compared to the old office downtown .
- May. 22, 2025
The eye doctor's are amazing at what they do. The receptionists can be pretty short with you, ESPECI... ALLY on the phone but honestly it's so busy you can't really fault them for it. I definitely recommend if you're the busy type too.
- May. 15, 2025
WONDERFUL CUSTOMER SERVICE I just had to say that these guys do a great job with customer service. ... I can say it's a great place. They'll take care of you.
- Apr. 21, 2025
Great place to get eye wear!!
- Apr. 16, 2025
It's really hard to describe how pleasant AND educational a visit to Dr Zahn's office is. His very e... mpathic and thoughtful communication is truly unique among all medical specialists; added bonus? His employees emulate his approach to patient care. You will relish having become connected with Eyes On Missouri.
- Apr. 07, 2025
Super friendly staff, amazing selection of frames, and Dr. Zahn is just terrific.
- Mar. 28, 2025
Dr. Zahn is so awesome! Takes time to really listen to any concerns and is goofy and fun while in th... e exam room!

View All 945 Reviews

Myopia Management in Jefferson City

Our optometry practice in Jefferson City

Photograph of Elizabeth Hedgpath
Hours
  • Monday 7:15 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 7:15 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wednesday 7:15 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 7:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
  • Sep. 01 Closed
Insurance Plans
  • Aetna
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Spectera
  • Anthem
  • Medicaid
  • MetLife

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 Eyes On Missouri - Jefferson City today to explore your options and ensure a clear, bright future for your child.

(573) 635-1313