Since the ‘70s, the concept of “wellness” is one that has been associated with alternative medicine ideas and operated on the fringe of mainstream health care.

But, along with changing views towards disease prevention and health care management, today, the definition of “wellness” is much more widespread and is increasingly being used in health care, legislative and political arenas.

Several managed care and professional organizations are looking to include preventative eye care in new definitions and programs of wellness.

One widely accepted definition of health is that of the World Health Organization (WHO), which states that “health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity” In more recent years, this statement has been modified to include the ability to lead a “socially and economically productive life.”

The term “wellness” is generally used to mean a healthy balance of the mind-body and spirit that results in an overall feeling of well-being.

University of California-Berkley’s Wellness Letter reports, “‘Wellness’ is a way of living that emphasizes such preventive measures as eating a healthy diet, making exercise an enjoyable part of your life, and making self-care decisions that will improve the quality of your life. This means reducing your risk for chronic disease, preventing injuries, banishing environmental and safety hazards from your home and workplace, and eliminating unnecessary trips to the doctor--but making best use of the health-care system when you need it.”

Massachusetts-based Convenant Health Systems defines “wellness” as “services focused on promotion or maintenance of good health rather than correction of poor health. Wellness programs often offer regular screening clinics for blood pressure and other health issues and health education.”