Optometrist Questions Glasses

How often should I get an eye test?

I've been wearing glasses for a while, and I go for an eye test maybe every two and a half years. But now as I'm getting older, I feel like my eyesight is worsening a lot quicker. Should I get my eyes tested more often?

12 Answers

This is a great question that should be answered directly by the eye doctor that you choose. Several factors will determine the time line for most patients; your age, your health, diabetics should have their eyes dilated at least annually or more often if there are complications, your refractive status (your actual prescription), family history of glaucoma, retinal diseases, macular degeneration, cataracts, or any eye problem that should be monitored, contact lens wearers should have their lenses and corneas checked regularly, any history of eye injuries should be watched carefully, any history of skin issues, and any neurological or nerve problems.
Please discuss any of your concerns with your eye doctor and they will schedule you appropriately. Good luck.
Yes. an eye exam can detect early signs of both eye diseases and health problems before you may even be aware. The eyes are the only part of the body where you can take a look at the blood vessels directly and catch early signs of diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol, etc.
Once a year.
Eye exams are recommended yearly.
Yes, especially if you are noticing changes. Over 40, it is recommended by the American Optometric Association to have an eye exam and dilation yearly
Once a year
Eye examinations are a good idea every two to three years between the ages of 18 and 40 but should occur with greater regularity for those younger and older. Children need regular exams to rule out binocular issues and ensure good acuity throughly the school years and adults over 40 need good evaluations to not only assure clear and comfortable vision, but to diagnose ocular and systemic diseases such as glaucoma, hypertensive, and diabetic retinopathy. Annual check ups are a good idea, but if you are having symptoms between visits, never hesitate to contact your eye doctor.

Regards,

Dr. Viola Kanevsky
It is recommended once a year. Usually we dilate the eyes each year as well.
If you have reached the age of 40, then every year. Between stopping your education until the age of 40, every two years is fine. Of course that is, unless you notice some difficulty. After 40, then every year until 70, then every 6 months is what I advise.

Robert Maynard, O.D.
As we get older, yearly eye exams are recommended. Your eye doctor can spot problems before they cause permanent damage and can help you treat or prevent the worsening of certain conditions when you get regular eye exams.
Once a year.
You should get an eye examination every year (annually) to determine your proper prescription and to check for your ocular health which can be affected even if your prescription doesn't change.