How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam? Age-Based Recommendations

Has it been a while since you or your loved ones have had a professional eye exam? If you’re unsure about the timeline for eye health and vision checkups, the team at Wicker Park Eye Center in Chicago, Illinois, is here to help.

Even children need eye exams

Vision and eye health problems more commonly affect older people, but that doesn’t mean kids don’t need routine eye exams. For children ages 3-5, a visit gives Dr. Daniel Tepper the chance to check for pediatric eye conditions, including amblyopia (lazy eye). 

Lazy eye indicates a problem with the communication between a child’s eye and brain. An eye exam can check for amblyopia and its risk factors. Untreated, this childhood eye health condition can lead to vision loss. 

If this initial eye exam doesn’t reveal areas of concern, most kids can come in for future exams every 3-5 years. 

Young adults should pay attention to changes in their vision

Everyone should have a professional eye exam at least once every 3-5 years. That’s true for young adults who haven’t noticed any change in their vision. 

But it’s worth a reminder that people sometimes believe their vision is perfect when, in fact, they’ve simply adapted to their vision. A professional eye exam can reveal vision issues that we can usually treat with glasses or contact lenses.

Adults over 40 should schedule more frequent eye exams

Once you reach 40, schedule an eye exam every 2-4 years. This timing helps Dr. Tepper identify areas of concern early, when treatment is often more effective. 

Most people experience some age-related vision decline in middle age. So you may need to wear glasses or update your existing prescription. 

Advancements in eye health technology have expanded the benefits of eye exams beyond eye health and vision. By examining the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels within your eyes, Dr. Tepper can detect hundreds of health conditions, even in the early stages.

Consider annual exams once you reach retirement age

Older adults need more frequent eye exams; your risk of eye health conditions increases as you move into your retirement years. Annual exams help Dr. Tepper identify and treat problems early, preserving your vision and helping you remain independent during this phase of life. 

You may also require more frequent updates to your eyeglasses or contact lens prescriptions. Keeping up with changing vision needs can preserve or improve your quality of life. 

Who needs annual eye exams at any age?

Age isn’t the only reason annual eye exams might be a good idea. If any of the following apply, ask Dr. Tepper for an individualized eye exam schedule:

• Family or personal history of eye disease
• Any form of diabetes
• Occupation or hobby that threatens eye health
• Previous eye surgery or eye injury
• Loss of vision in one eye
• Any progressive eye condition

If you wear glasses or contact lenses, schedule an eye exam if you notice changes in how well they work. And never hesitate to book an eye exam for yourself or a loved one if you experience any issues with your vision or eye health. 

At Wicker Park Eye Center, we’re here to assist you with all of your and your family’s eye health needs. To schedule an exam, call our office today or request an appointment online.