Eye problems can sneak up on us when we least expect them. Maybe you’ve noticed some eye strain, blurry vision, or chronic headaches. Or perhaps you’re thinking, “It’s been a while since my last eye exam, but my vision seems fine.” Regular eye exams are essential for everyone, even if everything seems okay. So, when was the last time you saw an eye doctor? Learn why it’s critical to see an optometrist on a regular basis and how often you should be visiting them.
Why eye exams are important
People often assume they only need an eye exam if something feels off, but many serious eye conditions can develop without symptoms. Conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetes, or high blood pressure can silently affect your vision, and catching issues early ensures better treatment outcomes. Eye exams aren’t only about checking if you need glasses or contact lenses; they’re about making sure your eyes are healthy and that any potential issues are addressed before they impact your vision.
How often do you need an eye exam?
The recommended frequency of eye exams depends on several factors, such as age, health status, and family history. Here’s a general guide to help you know when it’s time to schedule an appointment:
Frequency of eye exams for children:
- 0-5 years old: The first eye exam should happen between 6 months and 1 year of age to rule out any congenital or early developmental issues. After that, a follow-up exam is typically recommended at age 3 and then again before kindergarten. Eye exams are crucial during these early years, as vision problems can impact learning and development.
- School-aged children (6-18 years): Once kids reach school age, they should see an eye doctor every year or as recommended by their optometrist. Annual eye exams ensure their eyes are developing normally and catch early signs of eye conditions that could affect learning or quality of life.
Frequency of eye exams for adults:
- Ages 19 through 39: If your vision is clear and you don’t have any underlying health conditions, an eye exam every 2 years is usually sufficient. However, if you experience any vision problems or are at risk for eye conditions, you should schedule annual eye exams.
- Ages 40 through 64: This is when presbyopia (the need for reading glasses) commonly begins, and it’s also when people become more susceptible to age-related eye conditions. At-risk individuals and those who need vision correction should see an eye doctor once a year, while others can generally visit an optometrist every two years.
- 65 and older: As we age, the risk of conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts increases. If you’re 65 or older, it’s important to have an eye exam annually to monitor eye health.
Special considerations for scheduling an eye exam
In addition to age, there are other factors that may require more frequent eye exams. These include:
- Vision changes: If you notice any changes in your vision, such as blurry vision, headaches, or difficulty seeing at night, don’t wait for your next scheduled appointment—contact Waterbury Eye Associates right away to schedule an eye exam in Waterbury, CT.
- Family history: If you have a family history of eye diseases like glaucoma or macular degeneration, you may need more frequent exams to catch early signs of these conditions.
- Chronic conditions: If you have conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or autoimmune diseases, these can affect your eyes, so it’s important to stay on top of your eye health with more frequent exams.
Why choose Waterbury Eye Associates?
At Waterbury Eye Associates, we believe in providing eye care that feels personal because it is personal. Our team is dedicated to getting to know you and your unique vision needs. We’ll take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and guide you through every step of your eye care journey. Whether you’re coming in for a routine check-up or have concerns about recent vision changes, we’re here to help you see clearly and maintain healthy eyes for the long run.
Don’t wait for vision problems to sneak up on you—schedule your eye exam in Waterbury, Connecticut, today. We’re excited to partner with you in taking care of your eyes, and we can’t wait to welcome you into our office!
