How Often Should You See an Ophthalmologist? A Guide to Vision Care by Age
Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining optimal vision and detecting problems early. But how often should you see an ophthalmologist? The answer depends on your age, lifestyle, medical history, and any underlying eye conditions. Scheduling regular eye exams can help identify and treat conditions before they become serious.
Children & Teens (0-18 Years)
- Newborns should have their first eye exam at 6 months to check for congenital eye issues.
- Another eye exam should be performed at age 3, followed by one before starting school at around age 5 or 6.
- Annual exams are recommended for school-aged children to monitor vision development, screen for myopia (nearsightedness), and detect any early signs of eye conditions such as amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (crossed eyes).
- If a child wears glasses or has a diagnosed vision condition, more frequent visits may be necessary.
Adults (19-40 Years)
- A comprehensive exam every 2-3 years is sufficient if no vision problems exist.
- Individuals who wear contact lenses or glasses should have an annual exam to ensure prescriptions remain accurate.
- Those with a family history of eye disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or other risk factors should have more frequent check-ups to monitor eye health.
- People who experience frequent digital eye strain due to prolonged screen time should discuss preventive care with an ophthalmologist.
Middle Age (41-60 Years)
- Eye exams every 2 years to check for presbyopia (age-related difficulty focusing on close objects), cataracts, early glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
- Those with chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension should have yearly exams, as these conditions can increase the risk of vision loss.
- Those experiencing changes in night vision, increased glare, or trouble reading may require specialized testing and corrective lenses.
Seniors (60+ Years)
- Annual comprehensive eye exams are crucial for detecting cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration early.
- Patients with diabetes should have yearly diabetic eye exams, which include a dilated retinal exam to monitor for diabetic retinopathy.
- Seniors should also be screened for dry eye syndrome, which becomes more common with age and can affect vision comfort.
- Because older adults are at higher risk for falls, an updated prescription and assessment of depth perception, contrast sensitivity, and peripheral vision are important to maintain safety.
When to Schedule an Immediate Exam
Regardless of age, you should schedule an immediate eye exam if you experience:
- Sudden vision loss or blurred vision
- Eye pain, redness, or swelling
- Flashes of light or floaters
- Frequent headaches related to vision strain
- Difficulty seeing at night or adjusting to changes in light
Regular visits to Erdey Searcy Eye Group in Columbus, Ohio, ensure that your vision remains clear and healthy at every stage of life. Their team of experienced ophthalmologists provides personalized care, utilizing the latest technology to diagnose and treat eye conditions before they compromise your vision.