How often do you need to get an eye exam?

The recommended frequency of eye exams can vary depending on your age, overall eye health, and any specific eye conditions you may have. Here are general guidelines for how often you should get an eye exam:

Children and Adolescents:

• Children should have their first eye exam at around 6 months of age.
• Another exam is typically recommended at age 3.
• Afterward, children should have an eye exam before starting kindergarten or around age 5-6.
• Subsequent exams should occur at least every 2 years during the school-age years, even if there are no apparent vision problems.

Adults:

• For adults aged 18 to 60 with no vision problems or risk factors, an eye exam every 2 years is often sufficient.
• If you wear corrective lenses (glasses or contact lenses), or if you have certain risk factors (e.g., diabetes, a family history of eye diseases, high blood pressure), you may need annual eye exams.

Seniors (Aged 61 and Older):

• Adults aged 61 and older should have annual eye exams, as age-related eye conditions become more common with increasing age.

Individual Circumstances:

• People with specific eye conditions or chronic health conditions that can affect the eyes (e.g., glaucoma, cataracts, diabetes) may require more frequent eye exams. Your eye doctor will determine the appropriate schedule based on your individual needs.

It's important to note that these are general guidelines, and individual recommendations may vary based on your eye health history and risk factors. Always follow the advice of your eye care professional, as they can provide personalized recommendations tailored to your situation.

Additionally, if you experience any sudden changes in your vision, eye pain, redness, or other concerning symptoms between scheduled eye exams, it's crucial to seek immediate attention from an eye care specialist. Early detection and treatment of eye conditions can help preserve vision and prevent complications.