Reading with a candle?

Question

My mom blasted me a few weeks ago because of me reading with a candle when we had a blackout. She said that it could damage my eyes. I reasoned that people who didn't have electricity back in the day used gas lamps or candles. But she just wouldn't listen. Help?

Answer 1

I have worn contacts for almost 25 years (starting in my teens). while I am getting my eyes checked every year I ask the eye doctor about questions like that. they are always happy to answer them. they all say its a myth that low light and eyestrain hurt your eyes. they say that your vision is determined by genetics.

I have used computers now for 27 and I have had people telling me that computers wreck my eyes as well. Every eye doctor I ask about it says its just a myth. I believe eye doctors more than the people just telling some myth. you mom may have good intentions but she is wrong.

Answer 2

It's not really good for your eyes.

You need a lot of light when you're reading so your eyes don't strain.

And people a couple of generations ago developed cataracts and generally didn't live long enough to develop problems.

Answer 3

When I was a kid I'd read by flashlight under the covers so my parents would think I was sleeping; no problems from that that I'm aware of; also used the flashlight leaning on a shoulder to read while camping.  My mom used to think going to bed with wet hair would make you sick... oh, well.

Answer 4

Adn thatas why they had so many eye troubles back in those days how many older adults wear glasses today

Answer 5

she's right

Answer 6

Actually many people in them olden days used kerosene lamps.  And they tried to get most of their reading done before it got dark.  When candles were used, it was more than one candle, they put several in a candelabra.  

Remember your mother cares about your vision staying good when you are older.  Sometimes parents simply do not want to discuss issues.   They get tired, just like kids do.