AOA 2025: Wellness, self care, and the ocular impact with Dr Jessilin Quint

Jessilin Quint, OD, MBA, FAAO, co-owner of Smart Eye Care in Maine, delivered a compelling lecture on the intersection of wellness, nutrition, and ocular health. Her talk explored the emerging trends in preventive eye care and the critical role of nutritional supplements in maintaining optimal eye health. The presentation delved into the current wellness landscape, focusing on how nutritional interventions can positively impact eye care. Quint addressed the growing patient interest in supplements, highlighting the importance of understanding the beneficial and potentially harmful effects of various nutritional compounds on eye health.

A significant portion of her talk centered on the evolving approach to eye care treatment. She predicts a future where treatment plans will increasingly integrate prescription medications with targeted nutritional supplements. This integrative approach reflects the growing scientific understanding of how specific vitamins and nutrients can directly support eye health and potentially mitigate various eye diseases. Quint emphasized the need for continued research, acknowledging that while current scientific data are promising, there's still much to learn about the precise mechanisms of nutritional interventions in ocular health. She highlighted emerging research, such as the potential benefits of vitamin B in supporting eye health, while calling for more comprehensive studies. The lecture also touched on the critical aspect of self-care, referencing a study by Kaleb Abbott, OD, MS, FAAO, on burnout among optometrists. Quint stressed the importance of health care professionals taking care of themselves to provide the best possible care for their patients. Her key message centered on a holistic approach to patient care. Modern patients are increasingly interested in preventive measures and want to understand how lifestyle choices and nutritional interventions can protect their vision.

Quint envisions a future where eye care goes beyond traditional treatments, incorporating comprehensive wellness strategies. The talk concluded with an optimistic outlook on the future of eye care, suggesting that nutritional integration is not just a passing trend but a fundamental shift in how health care professionals approach patient treatment. By combining scientific research, patient-centered care, and a holistic understanding of health, optometrists can provide more comprehensive and effective eye care solutions.