How Often Should You Get A Comprehensive Eye Exam?

Getting a comprehensive eye exam is the best thing you can do for your vision and eye health. As vision begins to fade, the brain will adapt to accommodate the change. So unless you experience sudden vision loss, you may not be aware of changes in your vision. 

You might think that you can see just fine when the truth is that you need a new eyeglasses prescription, or perhaps your functional visual skills are hindering your performance in daily tasks. That’s why it is vital to understand how often you should get a comprehensive eye exam. 

Eye Checkup For Children

Eye specialists recommend that children get their first eye checkup at six months old. That is unless the pediatrician or parent notices signs of vision loss earlier. The doctor checks your child’s eyes again before first grade or kindergarten. School-going kids should have their eyes checked every year because schoolwork demands may impact visual performance. 

If you notice signs of eyestrain in your child, visit an eye doctor. Children who wear glasses need an eye checkup annually or more frequently. This will help ensure that the prescription is up-to-date.

From 20 to 39 Years Old

Adults between the ages of 20 and 39 should get a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years. This is the stage where people are least likely to experience rapid or sudden vision loss. However, you can get an exam more frequently to ensure that your entire visual system is functioning properly, especially if symptoms occur. Those who wear glasses or contacts should get eye checkups at least once a year. 

A more regular exam is ideal for those with diabetes, high blood pressure, and a history of eye disease. Patients with a previous eye injury or who have had eye surgery should also get exams more often.

From 40 to 64 Years Old

The eyes change continuously among adults between 40 and 64. Apart from diminishing vision, the lens prescription changes more frequently. The eye lens begins to harden at about 35 years old and continues after 40. Adults around age 40 usually start to experience problems with their near vision. 

Presbyopia is a common age-related eye condition. Adults within this age bracket are more likely to develop health conditions that lead to vision loss. These are conditions like high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.  

Over 65 Years Old 

Senior citizens above 65 should get eye exams every year. Apart from dealing with progressing presbyopia, senior adults are more likely to develop vision-related issues such as cataracts. 

Seniors have a high risk of developing macular degeneration, glaucoma, and other eye conditions. Those who have a previous history of eye surgery or trauma and other health conditions require more frequent eye exams.

Complete Comprehensive Eye Exam

A complete or comprehensive eye exam evaluates the entire visual system. Clarendon Vision approaches primary eyecare with advanced clinical training and understanding of the visual system and its development. This means that the patient experiences a more thorough eye exam, including a screening that assesses the skill levels of how the entire visual system functions.

For more on getting a comprehensive eye exam, visit Clarendon Vision Development Center at our office in Westmont, Illinois. You can call (630) 323-7300 today to schedule an appointment.