How Often Should You Get Eye Exams?

If you want to stay healthy, then you should get regular eye exams. But how often should you get an eye exam? In order to obtain a good vision that can last a lifetime, you should get the appropriate eye exam at the appropriate time.

When Should You Get an Eye Exam?

According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), eye exams for children should start at 6 months of age. The next eye exam will be done when they reach the age of three. Then, another eye exam will be done before they reach first grade. The succeeding exam will be done every two years thereafter. It is important to know that as we age early symptoms of different diseases will show up. This includes changes in your vision. That is why getting an eye exam is as important as getting a screening for cancer. When symptoms of eye diseases are detected earlier then it can be treated right away. In this way, you can preserve your vision.

But for those who already have an eye disease or have a potential of having one due to diabetes or high blood pressure, they must not wait any longer to get a comprehensive eye exam. If you have a family history of eye disease, then you should visit an ophthalmologist immediately. Do not wait until you reach the age of 40.

Should You Do It More Frequently?

After having your eye exam, you will be advised by our ophthalmologist when you are going to have the next one. As you get older, the risk for eye disease also gets higher. Hence, it is essential that you should have a regular eye checkup. However, for those who are 65 or older, they should get eye exams every one or two years. Age-related eye diseases including cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, are very common among older people.

Why Get Eye Exams?

Eye diseases which are not treated right away can become debilitating. However, you can protect yourself by getting eye exams. This is the best method of detecting concealed signs of an eye disease. It is important to get eye exams even if you don’t have eye diseases. Remember that early symptoms which are not treated immediately can lead to blindness.