What Age Should You Get Your First Eye Exam?

An eye exam is a sequence of tests done to assess an individual’s vision while looking for eye diseases. The exam takes at least an hour. The doctor will perform several tests such as a glaucoma test, a refraction test, and a visual acuity test to check the overall health of the eyes. An eye exam is important, especially for infants and small children.

The exam ensures that the child has normal vision development as well as confirming that no vision problem could affect their academic performance in school. It can also detect minor issues capable of escalating to major eye problems that can be hard to treat.

When Should Your Child Have Their First Exam?

Optometrists suggest infants have their first eye exam at six months. The next eye exams can occur before kindergarten at three years and the next just before they enter first grade. By now, they are usually five or six years old. Most school-aged kids should go for checkups every two years if they have no eye problems.

Doctors recommend that children who wear eyeglasses or contacts be examined annually or according to their doctor's recommendation. As a parent, you should trust your gut and not wait. If you notice a problem, consult your pediatrician. This is because early minor problems could affect the child's vision for life.

How Often Should Adults Have an Eye Exam?

Adults younger than 40 with no underlying eye conditions should have their eyes checked every two years. If you are an adult over 40, you should get your eyes checked once or twice over a two-year period.

This is because this is the age where vision changes and eye diseases are likely to start. Based on the health of your eyes, your doctor will recommend how often you will need eye exams. Adults who are 60 and older should get their eyes checked every year.

Go for more checkups regularly if any of the following describes you:

• You wear contacts or eyeglasses.

• You have a serious health condition such as high blood pressure.

• You work a job that requires you to use your eyes a lot or for long hours.

• You have had any previous eye-related issues.

• You suffer from a disease like diabetes, which could cause eye disease.

• You take drugs that can affect your eyesight.

How to Prepare for an Eye Exam

First, call your doctor. Before you go for the exam, write down any questions you may have. Go without your eyeglasses or contacts to the appointment. Do not forget to take your family eye history with you — it might be important during diagnosis.

When you get to the doctor, mention any visual problems you may be experiencing. Additionally, update your doctor on any medication you may be taking. During the exam, the doctor may use some eye drops to dilate your pupils. Bring your sunglasses for your journey back home as your eyes will be a bit sensitive to light afterward.

To know more about what age you should get your first exam, visit Primary Vision Care. Our offices are in Newark, Lancaster, Mount Vernon, Waynesville, and Wilmington. You can call (740) 299-1155, (740) 654-9909, (740) 393-6010, (937) 382-4933, or (513) 897-2211 to schedule an appointment.