Decoding Generational Preferences in Contact Lens and Eye Care for Practice

Perception of contact lens wear and eye care differs by generation. A study commissioned by the Contact Lens Institute and conducted by Prodege surveyed 1308 vision corrected residents from the United States and Canada from July to August 2025. The participants were divided into three generational cohorts: Gen Z (ages 15-28), Millennials (ages 29-44) and Gen X (ages 45-60) to assess how different ages affect habits and attitudes in contact lens decisions and eye care. Results indicate that Gen Zs wear contact lenses less than previous generations, and generational differences exist in rationale for wearing contact lenses. Furthermore, it highlights that what motivates one generation’s eye care choices may not necessarily be the same as those of other generations. These insights into what influences Gen Z, Millennials and Gen X are valuable in helping the eye care community attract new contact lens patients, as well as increase patient satisfaction and meet patient needs through targeted communication and education.