Indiana Academy of Ophthalmology

How Often Do Adults Need Eye Exams?

The IAO recommends that a healthy adult get a baseline eye exam at age 40, even if they have no history of eye problems or eye disease. Those who have chronic conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, may require more frequent exams.

From birth through the teenage years, children's eyes are growing and changing quickly. The American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus have developed specific childhood eye screening guidelines. Follow these guidelines to get your child screened at the right times. These screenings help identify when your child might need a complete eye exam.

Those over age 65 who may be concerned about cost or lack of health insurance, the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s EyeCare America program offers eligible seniors a comprehensive eye exam and up to one year of treatment at no out-of-pocket cost.

Two out of three Americans falsely believe vision loss is inevitable as we age. Sure, aging can affect your eyes — but vision loss is not the norm. Here are 21 common changes to vision and eye health that aging adults should watch for, and the best ways to protect your sight.

Common signs of aging eyes

1. Trouble reading fine print
2. Difficulty seeing at night
3. Dry eyes
4. Objects blending into backgrounds
5. Red, swollen eyelids
6. Spots or floaters in your vision
7. Flashes of light
8. Glare sensitivity
9. Cataracts
10. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
11. Glaucoma
12. Diabetic eye disease
13. Eye cancer
14. Falls can cause vision-threatening injuries
15. Poor sleep
16. Health problems might show up first in your eyes
17. Knowing your family's health history can protect your future
18. Healthy living is especially important as you age
19. Low vision tools can help
20. Prepare for exams when caring for people with Alzheimer's and dementia
21. Plan to get your eyes checked more often as you age