Having trouble remembering the last time you saw an eye doctor? This is already a sign that you need to schedule an eye exam. Most eye doctors recommend that you get an eye exam every one to two years, depending on factors such as age, family history, and existing health conditions. Routine checkups with your optometrist help catch vision changes early and screen for silent conditions that can threaten your sight.
Here are some general guidelines to help you determine the best time to schedule an eye exam for you or your child:
Children
Children rely heavily on their vision to learn and grow. Undetected vision problems can affect school performance and development, so early detection is key.
- 6 to 12 months old: The first eye exam should take place before a baby’s first birthday to check for signs of eye misalignment or developmental concerns.
- Age 3: A follow-up exam ensures the eyes are developing properly and working together as they should.
- Before starting school: Around age 5 or 6, children need a full eye exam to ensure they have the visual skills they need for the classroom.
- School-age kids: Children should have their eyes checked annually while in school, even if they haven’t had problems before. Their vision can change quickly during growth spurts.
Adults (ages 18-39)
Eye exams are also essential for young adults, even if your vision seems perfectly fine.
- No corrective lenses or risk factors: Every two years is generally recommended for eye exams.
- Wearing glasses or contacts: Annual eye exams ensure your prescription stays up to date and monitor eye health.
- Health conditions or eye strain: If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or spend long hours on screens, yearly exams are strongly recommended.
Adults (ages 40-64)
As you enter your 40s, your eyes begin to change. Common age-related conditions such as presbyopia (difficulty focusing up close as the lens of your eye loses flexibility) often start to develop around this time.
- Low risk: An eye exam every two years is typically sufficient.
- Wearing corrective lenses or high risk: Annual exams can detect early signs of cataracts, glaucoma, and other eye conditions before symptoms appear.
Seniors (65+)
Vision risks increase with age. Seniors are more likely to experience conditions like macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma.
- Annual exams are essential for early diagnosis, managing eye diseases, and maintaining quality of life.
High-risk patients
Certain factors may require more frequent visits to your eye doctor, including:
- Chronic health conditions: Diabetes and hypertension can impact the eyes and require more frequent monitoring.
- Family history of eye disease: Genetics plays a role in many eye conditions, making eye exams especially important for anyone with a family history of eye diseases.
- New or worsening symptoms: Blurry vision, headaches, floaters, or sudden changes in sight should never be ignored.
- Excessive screen time: Digital eye strain can significantly impact your everyday life. Your eye doctor can recommend strategies for preventing eye strain and improving visual comfort while using screens.
Schedule an exam today
It’s easy to assume that if you can see clearly, your eyes are healthy. However, many eye conditions develop slowly and without pain, causing permanent damage to your eyes before you notice vision changes. Regular exams can detect signs of glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, and other serious issues early when they’re most treatable.
At Vision Center Ltd, we offer a comprehensive selection of eyeglasses and comprehensive eye exams in Shelton, CT, for the whole family. If you’re ready to book your next exam, schedule your appointment with us today.
