The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors, including your age, health status, and whether you already wear corrective lenses. Here’s a general guideline to help you determine how often you should schedule an eye exam:
1. Children (Up to Age 18)
- Newborn to 2 years: Eye exams should occur as part of regular pediatric check-ups to assess general eye health and development.
- 3 to 5 years: Your child should have an eye exam before entering school, to detect conditions like lazy eye (amblyopia), crossed eyes (strabismus), or other developmental issues.
- 6 to 18 years: Every 1-2 years, especially if they wear glasses or contacts, or if you notice any vision problems, such as squinting, difficulty reading, or complaining of headaches.
**Children ages 0-18 are covered by Alberta Health Care for their eye exams and our office doesn’t charge any additional co-pay for your child’s eye exam**
2. Adults (Ages 19–40)
- Every 2 years: If you don’t have any major eye problems and aren’t wearing corrective lenses, you should schedule an eye exam every two years. This is the ideal time to check for any developing vision problems, like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
3. Adults (Ages 41–60)
- Every 1-2 years: After 40, your risk for eye conditions like presbyopia (difficulty focusing on close objects) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) increases. If you wear glasses or contacts, regular checkups can ensure your prescription is up to date, and your eyes remain healthy.
4. Older Adults (Ages 60 and Above)
- Every 1 year: As you age, you are at an increased risk for conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. Having an eye exam once a year allows your eye doctor to catch any potential issues early, which can be crucial for maintaining your vision.
**Seniors ages 65 and above are covered by Alberta Health Care for their eye exams and our office doesn’t charge any additional co-pay**
5. People with Specific Risk Factors
- More frequent exams: If you have diabetes, a family history of eye disease (like glaucoma or macular degeneration), or if you have a job or lifestyle that puts extra strain on your eyes (e.g., lots of screen time), you may need to visit your eye doctor more frequently. People who wear contact lenses should also have annual checkups to ensure their lenses are not causing issues.
The Importance of Regular Eye Exams
- Prevent Blindness: As mentioned earlier, some eye conditions don’t show noticeable symptoms until significant damage has already been done. Regular exams help catch diseases like glaucoma early, when they are more treatable.
- Detect Other Health Conditions: Eye exams can sometimes reveal early signs of conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and even certain types of cancer, allowing for timely treatment.
- Update Prescription: If you wear glasses or contacts, your prescription may change over time. An eye exam ensures your prescription is up to date, which helps you see clearly and reduces strain on your eyes.
- Maintain Your Quality of Life: Healthy vision is vital to your overall well-being. Even small changes in your eyesight can affect your daily life, from driving to reading to enjoying your favorite activities. Regular exams help you maintain optimal vision.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your eyes are healthy can provide peace of mind. If there’s any issue, early detection means early treatment, giving you the best chance to manage or prevent serious problems.
Incorporating regular eye exams into your healthcare routine is an investment in your long-term health. Whether you’re a child, an adult, or a senior, seeing your optometrist regularly can help you preserve your vision, detect health issues early, and ultimately lead to a higher quality of life. So, don’t wait—schedule your eye exam today and keep your vision in check!
Have you had your eye exam recently? If not, it might be time to book that appointment at Tamas EyeCare and ensure your eyes are in top shape! Book online or call us at (587) 755-6060. We can’t wait to see you!
