We don’t often think about our eyes unless there is a problem. Sure, if we notice that our vision is blurry we will make an appointment. But few people make sure that they and their family see their optometrist at the recommended intervals.
How Often Should You See The Eye Doctor?
A child’s first eye exam happens at birth. They should also have exams at 6 months, 3 years and again before entering elementary school. Exams are sometimes offered free of charge at school, and these free exams should be welcomed. Adults should have an exam in their early twenties, again in their early thirties and once more in their late thirties. After this, the recommended frequency of visits will vary depending on the individual’s eye health.
Optometrist Visits
Your vision may be fine, but an eye doctor does much more than check your and your family’s vision. A routine eye exam performed by a qualified professional, like those at All About Eyes, can detect serious conditions at the earliest stages. Some of these conditions include diabetes, macular degeneration, corneal diseases and glaucoma. In this way, regular visits to the eye doctor are part of an overall healthy lifestyle for you and your loved ones.
Kids Need Special Attention
As mentioned above, kids should have eye exams at birth and at 6 months and 3 years of age. At age 5, kids should be checked for proper eye alignment. Adult family members should be aware of signs that a child is having problems with his eyes. Such signs include: squinting, excessive eye-rubbing, chronic eye redness or tearing, abnormally colored pupils, or sitting too close to the TV or holding books too close to the face
Catching a problem with a kid’s eyes early is crucial to the child’s eye health later in life. The above list is not complete. Always discuss any concerns you may have with the child’s optometrist and take advantage of appointments to ask questions and educate yourself about your child’s eye health.
Older Family Members
Regular eye exams are important for seniors as well. The American Optometric Association recommends annual exams for persons aged 60 years and over.
From birth to the golden years, eye care is a key component of total health. Has your family been paying enough attention to their eyes?
