Do you know how often to get your eyes checked? Do you know what a comprehensive eye exam covers? Getting an eye exam is an integral part of staying healthy. But different age groups have different eye care needs.
A comprehensive eye exam is more than reading a chart. It is a thorough exam of your vision and eye health by an eye doctor. Depending on the doctor and the tests, it can take an hour or more. Here are some tests you may get during the exam:
Eye exam frequency depends on age, risk factors, and symptoms. Here are some general guidelines for different age groups:
Children’s eyes change fast, so they need regular screenings to find problems early. The AAO and the AAPOS say children should get screened at birth, 6-12 months, 3-4 years, before first grade, and every year after.
Pediatricians, family doctors, or eye doctors can do these screenings. If a screening finds a problem or your child has signs or risks for eye problems, they should get a complete eye exam by an eye doctor.
If your eyes and vision are good, the AAO says you should get a comprehensive eye exam by an eye doctor at 40. This is when eye diseases or vision changes may show up. Then, get an eye exam every 2-4 years until 54, every 1-3 years until 64, and every 1-2 years after 65.
But if you have signs or risks for eye problems, like diabetes, high blood pressure, family eye disease, or contact lens use, you should get an eye exam more often. Your eye doctor will say how often to check your eyes based on your needs.
Your risk for eye diseases goes up as you age. The AAO says seniors should check their eyes every year or two after 65. Your eye doctor will examine you for conditions like macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. Finding and treating them early can help save your vision.
Follow your eye doctor’s schedule for eye exams. Your eyes and vision need care all your life. A comprehensive eye exam can help by finding and treating problems early.
For more on comprehensive eye exams, visit Harmony Eyecare & Eyewear Gallery at our Harmony, Pennsylvania office. Call (724) 453-4926 to schedule an appointment today.