Eye exams often fall to the bottom of the priority list for individuals when the costs of other medical services come first. It is important, however, to put eye health first and get in for regular eye exams. This is important for both adults and children to visit the optometrist. For some, it’s more essential to visit more frequently or at least be more stringent about going.
These guidelines are according to the American Optometric Association:
1. When there’s a history of glaucoma in the family, it becomes more important that individuals don’t skip out on their regular exams or that they go more frequently. It’s recommended that people go once every 2 years, but an Optometrist may suggest a more consistent schedule. The same applies for other eye conditions like macular degeneration.
2. When someone has had eye surgery, checkups to ensure that there are no complications or further developments is essential. This is also true of those who have experienced eye trauma in the past.
3. Individuals that have jobs that put their eyes at risk in some way should be checked regularly. Whether this means construction, where there may be particles that can get in the eyes, or sports where the eyes may be at risk of impact.
4. Individuals with high blood pressure or diabetes may be at risk for vision issues and this needs to be monitored. Those taking medications that may have side effects that impact the eyes should also get exams regularly.
5. Eye exams are important for children that are just developing. At 6 months of age, it’s necessary to go to the first visit, the next at age 3 and the third at the start of school. After that, every 2 years is appropriate.