How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam?

Healthy vision is vital to your overall well-being, and regular eye exams play a key role in maintaining it. Whether you wear glasses, contact lenses, or have never needed vision correction, routine eye exams are essential for detecting problems early and preserving your eye health. But how often should you schedule an eye exam? The answer depends on your age, health, and risk factors.

General Eye Exam Guidelines

At EyeC Optometry, we recommend the following schedule for routine eye exams:

Children (6 Months – 18 Years)

1. First exam: Around six months old
2. Second exam: At age three
3. Before school: One comprehensive eye exam before starting school
4. School-age children: Every two years, unless vision issues arise

Routine pediatric eye exams are crucial for detecting vision problems that could affect learning and development.

Adults (18 – 64 Years)

1. Healthy adults: Every two years
2. Increased risk factors: Annual exams if you experience vision changes, eye discomfort, or have a family history of eye diseases

Adults should maintain regular eye exams to monitor changes in vision and detect conditions like glaucoma or dry eye syndrome early.

Seniors (65 and Older)

1. Annual comprehensive exams are recommended due to the increased risk of age-related eye diseases like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.

When You Need More Frequent Eye Exams

Certain health conditions and lifestyle factors may require more frequent eye exams. Consider scheduling annual or more frequent exams if you:

1. Have Diabetes or High Blood Pressure: Both can lead to eye complications like diabetic retinopathy or hypertensive retinopathy.
2. Have a Family History of Eye Disease: Conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration often run in families and require closer monitoring.
3. Experience Digital Eye Strain or Frequent Headaches: Prolonged screen use can cause digital eye strain, leading to headaches and blurry vision.
4. Wear Glasses or Contact Lenses: Annual exams ensure your prescription is accurate and up-to-date for optimal vision.

Why Routine Eye Exams Matter

Even if your vision seems perfect, eye exams can detect early signs of serious conditions, including:

1. Glaucoma
2. Cataracts
3. Dry Eye Syndrome
4. Macular Degeneration
5. Diabetic Retinopathy

Early detection allows for timely treatment, helping to preserve your vision and overall eye health.

Schedule Your Eye Exam at EyeC Optometry

If it’s been over a year since your last eye exam, now’s the time to schedule one. At EyeC Optometry in Gilroy, our experienced team provides thorough, personalized eye care to protect and enhance your vision.