Introduction

Your eyes are your windows to the world — and yet, they often get less attention than they deserve. Regular eye exams are not just about updating your prescription; they’re crucial for detecting early signs of vision problems and health issues like glaucoma, diabetes, and high blood pressure. But the question remains: how often should you have an eye exam?

This guide walks you through the ideal frequency of eye exams based on age, risk factors, and symptoms so you can protect your vision long-term.

Why Regular Eye Exams Matter

Most people don’t realize they have a vision issue until it significantly impacts their daily life. Regular eye exams can:

• Detect changes in vision before symptoms appear
• Prevent complications from conditions like glaucoma and cataracts
• Catch early signs of systemic diseases such as diabetes or high blood pressure
• Monitor eye development in children and prevent learning difficulties

The American Optometric Association (AOA) and ophthalmologists worldwide stress the importance of routine eye exams tailored to age and risk level.

Eye Exam Frequency by Age Group

Children (Ages 0–18)

• Infants (6 months): First eye exam to check for early problems
• Preschoolers (3–5 years): At least one eye exam before school starts
• School-age children (6–18 years): Every 1–2 years if no symptoms or risk factors
• Why it’s critical: Early detection of lazy eye, crossed eyes, or refractive errors can prevent permanent vision loss and support academic success.

Adults (Ages 19–39)

• Eye exams every 2 years if no vision issues are present
• Annually, if wearing corrective lenses
• More frequent exams if experiencing eye strain, blurred vision, or headaches

Adults (Ages 40–64)

• Every 1–2 years, even without symptoms
• At age 40, early signs of presbyopia, glaucoma, and macular degeneration begin to appear
• Adults with risk factors (diabetes, high blood pressure, family history of eye disease) should schedule annual exams

Seniors (65 and older)

• Annual eye exams are strongly recommended
• Higher risk of age-related eye conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
• Preventive care can preserve vision and reduce fall risk

Signs You May Need an Eye Exam Sooner

Even if you’re not due for a scheduled eye exam, you should see an optometrist or ophthalmologist if you experience:

• Sudden changes in vision
• Frequent headaches
• Eye strain or fatigue
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Seeing flashes of light, floaters, or halos
• Squinting, especially in children

Don’t wait for your scheduled exam if something doesn’t feel right. Early intervention can make all the difference.

Eye Exam Frequency for High-Risk Groups

People in these categories should schedule more frequent exams (often annually):

• Diabetics: Risk of diabetic retinopathy
• People with high blood pressure
• Contact lens wearers
• Those with a family history of glaucoma or AMD
• People taking medications with eye-related side effects

Talk to your eye doctor about the right frequency based on your medical history and lifestyle.

What Happens During an Eye Exam?

Knowing what to expect helps ease anxiety. A comprehensive eye exam usually includes:

• Visual acuity test: Checks how clearly you see
• Refraction test: Determines prescription for glasses or lenses
• Eye movement and coordination tests
• Retinal exam: Detects signs of disease
• Eye pressure test (tonometry): Screens for glaucoma

Some exams may include dilation for a better view of the retina, especially if you’re at risk for disease.

Tips for Staying on Top of Eye Health

• Set reminders for your next eye exam
• Use vision insurance benefits before they expire
• Wear sunglasses to protect against UV rays
• Follow the 20-20-20 rule for screen use: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds
• Eat a diet rich in lutein, zeaxanthin, and omega-3s for eye health

Conclusion

So, how often should you have an eye exam? It depends on your age, lifestyle, and risk level. But one thing is clear: routine eye exams are an essential part of your overall health plan. Whether you’re protecting your child’s developing vision, managing a chronic condition, or aging gracefully, don’t skip your next appointment.

Book your eye exam today and see the difference regular care makes.