Boost awareness and footfall this World Glaucoma Week

World Glaucoma Week, happening 9 – 15 March, is a fantastic opportunity for optical practices to engage their local communities, raise awareness about glaucoma, and bring more people into your practice. Glaucoma, often called the “silent thief of sight,” affects millions worldwide, yet many people remain unaware of its risks or the importance of early detection. By organising events, sharing educational resources, and creating a buzz, you can position your practice as a vital health resource in your community while growing your patient base.

Here are practical ways SightCare members can make the most of this impactful week:

Create a press release about your glaucoma screenings

  • Promote it loudly: Use social media, posters, and local press to announce these screenings.
  • Create urgency: Offer more appointments for it exclusively during World Glaucoma Week to encourage immediate action.
  • Collaborate: Partner with community centres, groups or workplaces to host pop-up screening sessions in accessible locations.

Leverage Social Media Campaigns

Social media is a powerful tool to spread awareness and drive engagement.

  • Informative content: Share bite-sized posts, infographics, or short videos about glaucoma risks, symptoms, and the importance of regular check-ups.
  • Go live: Host a video Q&A with your optometrists to answer questions about glaucoma.
  • Hashtags: Use #WorldGlaucomaWeek and tag @WorldGlaucomaWeek to expand your reach and align with the global movement.

Collaborate With Local Influencers and Media

Partnering with local influencers or health bloggers can amplify your message.

  • Influencer posts: Ask them to share personal stories, visit your practice, or highlight your services. Perhaps, with permission, share the story of a patient you have helped who has glaucoma.
  • Local press: Send a press release about your activities to newspapers, radio stations, and TV outlets. Coverage from trusted sources can lend credibility and attract attention.

Organise Awareness Events

Host events that educate your community about glaucoma.

  • Workshops: Offer talks about glaucoma prevention, detection, and management.
  • Community walks: Organise a glaucoma awareness walk with participants wearing branded T-shirts to promote your practice.
  • Educational packs: Provide leaflets or digital guides explaining glaucoma’s impact and the importance of regular eye exams.

Run a referral Campaign

Encourage your existing patients to bring in their friends and family during World Glaucoma Week.

  • Special offers: Offer discounts or rewards for patients who refer someone to your practice for an eye exam.
  • Spread the word: Share your referral program through email, texts, and social media.

Enhance your practice’s online presence

Update your website and Google Business profile to reflect your participation in World Glaucoma Week.

  • Dedicated page: Create a page or blog post about glaucoma and your planned activities.
  • SEO boost: Use keywords like “glaucoma screening near me” to improve local search rankings.
  • Reviews: Encourage happy patients to leave positive reviews about their glaucoma screenings or your services.

Partner with local businesses and organisations

Expand your reach by working with other businesses or groups in your area.

  • Cross-promotions: Collaborate with gyms, pharmacies, or wellness centres to promote eye health.
  • Corporate screenings: Offer to conduct eye health talks or screenings for employees at local companies.

Engage with schools and parents

Educating younger generations and parents can make a long-term impact.

  • School campaigns: Provide glaucoma awareness materials for school newsletters or parent-teacher events.
  • Interactive activities: Design child-friendly materials to teach the importance of regular eye exams.

Why Your Efforts Matter

Early detection and intervention can save sight – and your practice plays a critical role in that mission. By participating in World Glaucoma Week, you not only make a meaningful difference in your community but also position your optical practice as a trusted partner in eye health.

Let’s make World Glaucoma Week 2025 the most impactful yet. Together, we can shine a light on glaucoma and help protect the vision of those in our communities.

For more information and to download their toolkit, visit World Glaucoma Week’s official website.

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