Adjusting To Contact Lenses

People have different eye care needs depending on their overall health, stage of life, and specific vision concerns. You should see your eye doctor at least as often as experts recommend. Here are four life stages when it's beneficial to get an eye exam, along with more detailed information about recommended exam schedules:

1. Childhood

Kids grow rapidly. During these years, their bodies undergo many changes, and their vision can change as well. Children may not have the frame of reference required to complain of blurry vision. It's important to catch eyesight changes as soon as possible so you can get your child the glasses they need to do well in school. Children should have their first eye exam before their first birthday. If everything looks good to the eye doctor, they don't need to return for another appointment until they start school. Once children enter school, they should have their vision checked annually.

2. Adulthood

Many people find that their vision stabilizes once they reach adulthood. If you don't wear glasses and haven't noticed blurred vision, you can skip the annual eye exams unless you have other concerns. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, everyone should schedule an appointment for an eye exam once they turn 40. This eye exam will allow your doctor to check for common eye problems. Adults should also schedule an eye exam every one to two years if they wear glasses or contacts; an eye doctor will need to keep your prescription up to date so your vision aids always provide the proper amount of assistance.

3. Senior Years

Senior citizens are more prone to eye disorders and decreased vision. After your 40th birthday, you should continue to schedule routine eye exams. Glaucoma and cataracts are more likely to affect seniors. These problems can impair your vision, leading to decreased night sight and even permanent blindness. Yearly eye exams will help your doctor ensure that you're still fit to drive.

4. Times of Additional Vision Concerns

You may have reasons to be concerned about your vision that are unrelated to your age. If your family members have experienced eye disease, you're more likely to be affected by it as well, since many problems are genetic. Diabetes and hypertension can make you more susceptible to glaucoma. If you have concerns about your eye health, you should see your eye doctor at least once a year.

For more tips on when to get an eye exam, reach out to a local eye doctor.