We get it; when your vision seems fine, scheduling an eye exam probably isn’t at the top of your to-do list. You’re not alone. A lot of people assume they only need to visit the eye doctor when something feels “off” or they run out of contact lenses. But the truth is, your eyes can change quietly over time. And in some cases, those changes might point to something more serious than just needing a stronger prescription.
Knowing when to get an eye exam and understanding the importance of regular eye exams can make all the difference in keeping your vision sharp and your eyes healthy long-term.
Eye Exams Are About More Than Just Vision
Sure, eye exams check how well you see. But they also do so much more. A comprehensive eye exam takes a close look at your overall eye health, not just your ability to read the bottom row of an eye chart.
Many common eye conditions, including glaucoma and macular degeneration, develop with little to no early warning signs. You could feel totally fine and still have something going on beneath the surface. These conditions are much easier to manage—or even slow down—when caught early, which is why prevention plays such a big role in eye care. The importance of regular eye exams isn’t just about better eyesight. It’s about protecting your long-term health.
How Often Should You Really Get an Eye Exam?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there are some general guidelines to help you stay on track.
- Adults under 60: If you don’t wear glasses and have no known eye issues, every two years is usually fine. But annual visits are better if you wear corrective lenses.
- Adults 60 and older: Yearly exams are recommended, since the risk for age-related eye diseases increases with time.
- Children: The first exam should happen at six months old, then again around age three, and before starting school. After that, kids should see the eye doctor every year.
- People with specific risk factors: Diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of eye disease means you may need more frequent exams.
If you’re unsure when to get an eye exam, just ask your eye doctor. They’ll consider your health history, lifestyle, and any current symptoms to recommend the right schedule.
Listen to What Your Eyes Are Telling You
Our bodies have a sneaky way of adapting when something isn’t quite right. Maybe you’re squinting more than usual or avoiding nighttime driving without realizing why. Here are some common signs that it’s time to schedule an eye exam:
- Blurry vision, especially when reading, using a screen, or looking at distant objects
- Frequent headaches that tend to follow long periods of concentration
- Trouble seeing at night or while driving in dim light
- Eye fatigue or a feeling of strain during daily tasks
- Sudden changes in vision, such as flashes of light or floating spots
Even mild symptoms can signal bigger issues. Waiting it out only increases the chance of complications. Knowing when to get an eye exam can prevent unnecessary stress and may even protect your vision from long-term damage.
Keeping Prescriptions Up to Date Matters More Than You Think
A slightly outdated prescription might not seem like a big deal. Maybe you can still “kind of” read the menu across the room. But walking around with the wrong lens strength can lead to eye strain, neck pain, and constant fatigue. It also impacts your ability to focus clearly and comfortably throughout the day.
Annual checkups make sure your prescription is adjusted to match your current vision, not what it was two years ago. And for contact lens users, routine exams ensure your eyes are staying healthy while wearing them, since improper fit or dryness can lead to more serious concerns if left unchecked.
Long-Term Benefits of Being Proactive About Eye Health
You don’t wait for your teeth to hurt before seeing the dentist, right? The same principle applies here. Staying ahead of potential problems is at the heart of the importance of regular eye exams.
By the time some eye conditions show symptoms, irreversible damage may have already occurred. Regular visits help spot early warning signs and allow your doctor to monitor changes over time. Plus, comprehensive eye exams can sometimes detect signs of larger health issues, like high blood pressure or diabetes, before they’re picked up elsewhere.
Proactive care is easier, less expensive, and far more effective than emergency fixes.
Give Your Eyes the Attention They Deserve
Your vision touches nearly every part of your daily life, from work and hobbies to driving and spending time with loved ones. And yet, so many of us let years go by without checking in on our eye health. If you’ve been wondering when to get an eye exam, the answer might be: sooner than you think.
Whether you’re updating your glasses, dealing with eye fatigue, or just want peace of mind, scheduling a routine exam is a simple step that can protect your vision now and in the future.
Not sure if it’s time? Let’s talk. At Intermountain Eye Center, we make it easy to get personalized, thorough care that fits your needs. Contact us today to schedule your next appointment—and see what you’ve been missing.
FAQs
What happens during an eye exam?
A typical exam includes a vision test, a review of your medical history, eye pressure check, retinal evaluation, and screening for common eye conditions.
Do I still need exams if I don’t wear glasses or contacts?
Yes—many eye diseases can develop without symptoms and have nothing to do with needing vision correction.
Are kids’ eye exams different from adult exams?
Yes. Children’s exams focus on development and spotting early signs of issues that could affect learning or behavior.
Does insurance usually cover eye exams?
Most vision plans cover annual eye exams. Coverage may vary, so it’s best to double-check with your provider.
What if I recently had LASIK or cataract surgery?
Even with corrected vision, you’ll still need routine checkups to monitor eye health and catch changes early.
How should I prepare for my appointment?
Bring your current eyewear, a list of medications, and any questions or concerns about your vision. Your doctor will handle the rest.
