Most people do not think about having an eye exam until they are experiencing some type of vision issue, but regular eye exams can be an important part of maintaining your health. Most people get an annual physical and dental cleanings every six months, but many people don’t prioritize getting their eyes checked until they have a problem. 

Being proactive and having regular eye exams can save you time, money, and potentially your eyesight. Just like other medical conditions, early detection is key when it comes to addressing eye health. Regular eye exams can assist in early detection and treatment of many vision threatening eye diseases and can sometimes assist in halting or slowing down the progression of these illnesses. 

So how often should you get an eye exam or see an optometrist? You are about to find out!
 

WHEN CHILDREN SHOULD SEE AN EYE DOCTOR

The AOA (American Optometric Association) recommends that children receive comprehensive eye exams on a regular schedule that begins in infancy. 

• A comprehensive baseline eye exam should be done between the ages of 6 months and 12 months.

• At least one eye exam should be done between the ages of 3 and 5 to check for any conditions that could have long-term effects.

• An annual, comprehensive eye exam starting before first grade to ensure children don’t need corrective eyewear for school or when learning to read. 
   

Why is it important for children to see an eye doctor so early? 

First of all, if a vision problem goes undetected, it can cause unnecessary and potentially debilitating delays in an infant’s development. An optometrist can assist in diagnosing early vision issues in infants and in some cases, provide early intervention treatment that can strengthen their eyesight or prevent it from deteriorating further. This is why early detection is so important – especially in young children.

Most optometrists recommend that infants should have an eye exam by the time they are 6 months old to ensure that their eyes are developing normally. 

Once children have entered school, it is imperative to ensure that their eyesight is developing correctly. Children are presented with a lot of visual material at school, especially as they are learning to read. If there is a problem with their vision, it can impede their ability to learn. Since children that are born without perfect eyesight have often experienced it their entire life, it is usually impossible for kids to explain to their parents that they are having vision problems. 

Children that do not have any significant risk factors should continue to get an eye exam every two years. 

Risk factors to watch out for include:

• Crossed eyes

• A family history of vision problems

• Underweight at birth

• Sickness and disease

• Developmental problems
   

Keep in mind, if your child has eyeglasses or contact lenses, they should have an eye exam every single year instead of every two years to ensure that there have not been any changes to their vision that would require a change to their prescription.
 

WHEN ADULTS SHOULD SEE AN EYE DOCTOR

Although eye exams are particularly important for infants and children, it is important for adults as well.  Adults between the ages of 18-64 that do not wear contact lenses or eyeglasses should have an eye exam every two years. Annual visits are typically recommended for adults 65+.

If any significant risk factors apply to you, it is recommended to have an eye exam more frequently. Adults with a family history of eye disease may need to have more frequent eye exams as well.  Any adult that has sustained an eye injury in the past or is taking certain medications may also need to see an eye doctor more frequently. 

Adults over the age of 40 will often begin to see gradual changes in vision. If you should experience any sudden changes to your vision, make an appointment to see an eye doctor as soon as possible. Some of these symptoms include:
 

• Blurred or double vision

• Squinting to see clearly

• Eyes that feel tired or irritated

• Distorted vision

• Trouble seeing and driving at night
   

FINDING AN OPTOMETRIST NEAR YOU

Now that you know how often you should get an eye exam, it is time to pick a qualified optometrist to perform your comprehensive eye exam. If you can’t remember when you had your last eye exam, or you’ve been noticing a recent change in your vision, you don’t want to wait to make your next appointment.

At Everything Eyes in Delray Beach, our optometrists are committed to making sure you get the individualized attention that your eyes need.

Everything Eyes is conveniently located in Delray Beach, just North of Boca Raton and is proud to be one of the top-rated eye care providers in Delray. With over two hundred online reviews and a near five-star rating online, our patients agree.

Whether you’re looking to bring your infant in for their first comprehensive eye exam, have experienced a recent change in your vision, or suffer from a more serious eye condition, our experienced optometrists are up to the challenge.

As board-certified optometrists with a dedication to providing patients with personalized care,  Dr. Garmizo and Dr. Golchin have made Everything Eyes a top destination for eye care in Delray Beach, Florida. Our doctors are committed to helping patients improve and preserve their vision so that they can enjoy all of the beautiful sights the world has to offer. 

Don’t wait to make your next eye appointment, click here to schedule an appointment or call Everything Eyes today at (561) 499-2055.