Did you know that 25% of Canadians who don't wear glasses haven't had an eye exam in over 10 years?
They may be unaware that maintaining good eye health is crucial for overall well-being. Getting regular eye tests is an essential part of preventative eye care.
You may be wondering how often you should get your eyes tested, and the answer varies depending on a variety of factors. Continue reading and you'll soon be familiar with the correct frequency at which patients should have their eyes tested.
Official Recommendations
The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends that adults aged 18 to 64 should have their eyes tested every two years. However, that's not the case if they have vision problems or risk factors for eye disease.
For those aged 65 and over, the recommendation is to have an eye exam every year or as recommended by their optometrist.
Children should have their first eye exam at six months of age, then at age three, and again before starting first grade. After that, children should have their eyes tested every two years unless told otherwise by an optometrist.
There Are Exceptions to the Rule
Those recommendations detailed above are not set in stone. It's crucial to understand that every patient is different. Those with certain medical conditions or with a higher risk for eye disease may need to visit an optometrist more frequently.
Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and a family history of eye disease can increase the risk of eye problems. These people may require more frequent eye exams.
Individuals who wear glasses or contact lenses should also have their eyes tested more often. Even with corrective lenses, vision can change over time. Regular eye exams can ensure that the prescription is up to date and that the lenses are working correctly.
There are certain symptoms or changes in vision that should prompt a visit to an optometrist. At Eye Health Centres, our staff and doctors are well-trained and diligent enough to detect various health issues.
If an individual experiences sudden change in vision, such as blurred vision, double vision, or flashes of light, they should seek immediate medical attention. Other symptoms that may require an eye exam include eye pain, redness, itching, or swelling.
It's also important to note that certain medications can affect eye health and may require more frequent eye exams.
It's Not a One Size Fits All
Ultimately, the frequency with which an individual should have their eyes tested depends on their situation.
Patients with risk factors for eye disease or those who wear glasses or contacts may need to have their eyes tested more often than the recommended two-year interval.
Also, children should have their eyes tested regularly to ensure proper eye development. Eye tests will help identify any vision problems early on.
Don't Go Without Regular Eye Tests
Hopefully, you now know when you should be going to see an optometrist. There can be no doubt that regular eye tests are central to protecting your vision and maintaining your overall well-being.
At Eye Health Centres, we tailor our services to suit your needs. Get in touch to schedule an eye examination with an experienced Calgary and Regina optometrist today.