Your eyes help you work on your computer, drive your car, and connect with the world around you. The team at MEye Health understands that when life gets busy, it’s easy to forget about one’s health. Keeping your vision clear and comfortable is an important part of your overall well-being, and comprehensive eye exams are essential to that.
So, how often do you need an eye exam? The right schedule for an eye exam depends on your age, your overall health, and whether you currently wear glasses or contacts.
General Eye Exam Timelines For Adults
You can think of an eye exam schedule as a helpful guide. While your personal needs may differ, following a generally recommended timeline can help keep your vision in top shape.
For Ages 19 to 64
If you have no known vision issues or specific health risk factors, an eye exam every one to two years is a great rhythm to follow. The frequency helps the doctor identify small changes before they become larger concerns.
For Ages 65 & Over
As you get older, your eyes naturally go through more changes. After age 65, it’s a good idea to schedule an eye exam every year to monitor for common age-related eye conditions.
What About Eye Exams For Children?
Clear vision plays a huge role in a child’s learning and development, from the classroom to the playground. Regular eye exams for children can help give them the best possible start.
Infants & Toddlers
A child’s first eye exam should happen between six and nine months of age. During this visit, the doctor checks that their eyes are developing properly and working together as a team.
School-Aged Children
After their first exam, children should take another before they start school, and then one every year after that. Our optometrist in Burlington can assess vision problems that may affect how your child learns and focuses on their work.
Factors That Change Your Exam Schedule
The general guidelines are a great starting point, but some factors may require more frequent visits to the eye doctor. Your personal health and vision history are key to creating the right schedule for you.
If You Wear Glasses or Contacts
When you depend on glasses or contact lenses to see clearly, you should have an eye exam every year. This visit allows the doctor to confirm that your prescription is still accurate and to assess the overall health of your eyes.
If You Have Health Conditions
Certain health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, can affect your eyes. If you have a condition that increases your risk of eye disease, your doctor may recommend more frequent exams.
If You Notice Vision Changes
You shouldn’t wait for your next scheduled appointment if you notice something is off. Any sudden changes, such as blurry vision or seeing flashes of light, mean it’s time to book an exam right away.
Signs You Should Book An Exam Sooner
Your eyes often signal when they need attention. If you experience any of the following, it’s a good idea to schedule a visit to have your vision checked.
- Frequent headaches, especially after reading or using a computer, can be a sign of digital eye strain
- Vision that seems blurry or changes throughout the day
- A gritty, scratchy, or burning feeling in your eyes
- New or increased sensitivity to light
- More difficulty driving at night
- Seeing new floaters or flashes of light, which may require emergency eye care
Why Regular Eye Exams Are Important
An eye exam is much more than a simple check to update your prescription. It’s a comprehensive eye health check-up that can also provide valuable insights into your overall health.
It’s More Than Just A Vision Test
A functional vision exam looks at how your eyes work together and, just as importantly, how comfortable they feel. The goal is to correct your vision so you can see clearly and comfortably while performing daily tasks such as reading, driving, or working.
A Window Into Your Overall Health
The tiny blood vessels in the back of your eye can provide a clear view of your circulatory health. An eye exam can sometimes spot early signs of other health conditions, helping you get a more complete picture of your well-being.
A functional vision exam goes beyond a standard 20/20 test by assessing how your eyes feel during everyday activities. At MEye Health, our team uses innovative tools, such as Neurolens, to provide a detailed view of how your eyes move and work together, uncovering subtle changes that may cause discomfort or strain. If you’re due for a check-up or have noticed changes in your vision, connect with our optometrist in Burlington. Schedule your appointment at MEye Health to help keep your eyes healthy and your vision comfortable for years to come.
