Jul 1, 2024

How Often Should I Get an Eye Exam?

woman getting an eye exam

Jul 1, 2024

How Often Should I Get an Eye Exam?

Many people believe they only need an eye exam if they wear corrective lenses, but that is not true. Eye exams are about more than updating your prescription. Regularly visiting the eye doctor is crucial for maintaining good eye health and catching any issues early. Learn more about the importance of scheduling regular eye exams and find out how often you should schedule appointments.  

Why regular eye exams matter 

Early detection of eye diseases 

Regular eye exams can help detect any potential issues early on. Many eye conditions, such as glaucoma and macular degeneration, often have no symptoms in the early stages. By getting regular check-ups at Valley Eye Care Associates, your eye doctor can catch these problems before they progress and potentially cause permanent damage to your eyesight. Early detection is key when it comes to treating eye conditions effectively. 

Get a picture of your overall health 

Your eyes are windows into your overall health. Our eye doctors can often detect conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure during your comprehensive eye exam in Fort Kent. We not only check your vision but also assess your eye health and look for any signs of systemic diseases. 

Monitor vision changes over time 

Additionally, scheduling regular eye exams allows your eye doctor to monitor any changes in your vision. Our eyesight can change over time due to factors like age or health conditions. By keeping up with routine exams at Valley Eye Care Associates in Fort Kent, Maine, you can ensure that your prescription is up-to-date and you are seeing as clearly as possible. This is especially important for those who wear glasses or contact lenses. 

How often should you schedule eye exams?  

  • Children: Kids should have their first comprehensive eye exam at around six months old, again at age three, and once more before starting school. Once in school, children should see an eye doctor every one to two years, unless advised otherwise by your optometrist. At Valley Eye Care Associates, we provide pediatric eye exams in Fort Kent and treat eye health and vision problems in children of all ages. 
  • Adults: For adults with no known eye issues, a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years is usually sufficient. If you wear corrective lenses, have a family history of eye disease, or have health conditions like diabetes, we may recommend more frequent exams. 
  • Seniors: Adults aged 65 and older should have annual eye exams to monitor for age-related eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. 

Don’t wait until you notice a problem with your vision. Contact us today to schedule an eye exam with Valley Eye Care Associates in Fort Kent, Maine. Our team is here to help you maintain healthy eyes and clear vision for years to come.