How Often Should You Schedule an Eye Exam?

April 30, 2025

Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining healthy vision and detecting potential issues before they become serious. But how often should you schedule an eye exam? The answer depends on factors such as age, vision needs, and overall eye health. In this blog, we’ll break down recommended eye exam schedules for different age groups and individuals with specific eye conditions.

Why Are Regular Eye Exams Important?

Many eye conditions, such as glaucoma and macular degeneration, develop slowly and without obvious symptoms in their early stages. Routine eye exams allow optometrists to:

Detect vision changes and prescribe or update corrective lenses

Identify early signs of serious eye diseases

Monitor existing conditions like dry eye, cataracts, and glaucoma

Check for overall eye health and systemic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure

Skipping eye exams can lead to undetected vision problems, which may impact daily life and even increase the risk of permanent vision loss.

How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam?

Children (Birth to 18 Years)

First eye exam: Around 6 months old

Second eye exam: Around age 3

Before starting school: At age 5 or 6

School-age children (6–18 years): Every one to two years if they have no vision issues; annually if they wear glasses or contacts

Children’s vision plays a crucial role in learning and development. Early detection of issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or lazy eye can help ensure success in school and sports.

Adults (18–40 Years)

Every two years if no vision problems exist

Annually if you wear glasses, contacts, or have a family history of eye disease

Even if you have perfect vision, regular exams can catch early signs of conditions like glaucoma or retinal disease.

Adults (40–60 Years)

Every one to two years for individuals with no known eye issues

Annually for those with risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of eye disease

At this stage, many people begin experiencing presbyopia, a condition that makes it harder to see up close. Regular exams help monitor these changes and adjust prescriptions accordingly.

Seniors (60 and Older)

Annual eye exams are highly recommended due to an increased risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma

Age-related eye diseases can progress silently, making frequent exams essential for early intervention and treatment.

When to Schedule More Frequent Eye Exams

Diabetes or high blood pressure – These conditions increase the risk of retinal damage and require annual or more frequent eye exams.

Glasses or contact lens wearers – Prescription changes should be monitored annually to ensure the best vision.

History of eye disease – Those with a personal or family history of glaucoma, macular degeneration, or other conditions should follow their eye doctor’s recommendations for exams.

Frequent headaches or eye strain – Digital eye strain from excessive screen time may require an exam sooner than the standard schedule.

Experiencing sudden vision changes – If you notice floaters, flashes of light, blurry vision, or double vision, see an eye doctor immediately.

What to Expect During an Eye Exam

A comprehensive eye exam includes:

Visual acuity test – Measures how clearly you see at different distances

Refraction test – Determines your glasses or contact lens prescription

Eye pressure test – Screens for glaucoma

Retinal exam – Evaluates the health of the retina and optic nerve

OCT or visual field testing – Advanced imaging to detect early signs of eye disease (available at most Harvey & Lewis locations)

If you wear contacts or have a specific eye condition, your exam may include additional tests tailored to your needs.

Take Control of Your Eye Health

Routine eye exams are a simple yet powerful way to maintain clear vision and prevent serious eye conditions. No matter your age or vision status, scheduling regular checkups can protect your eyesight for years to come. At Harvey & Lewis Opticians, we offer comprehensive eye exams for all ages, using the latest technology to assess and maintain your eye health. Don’t wait—schedule your next eye exam today!