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.

As children grow and change from year to year, so do their eyes and vision. Squinting or hold reading material very close to their face may be signs of vision problems. Other subtle signs may include:

• Having a Short Attention Span - Your child might seem to quickly lose interest in games, projects or other lengthy activities.
• Losing Their Place When Reading - As your child reads (aloud or silently), they may have difficulty seeing to keep track of where they are on the page.
• Avoiding Reading and Other Close Activities - Your child may avoid reading, drawing, playing games or doing other projects that need up-close focus. Children can be subtle about it and not tell you about the trouble they are having.
• Turning Their Head to the Side - A child may turn their head to the side when looking at something in front of them. This may be a sign of a refractive error, including astigmatism. Turning their head helps the child see better.

Eye Screenings Are Crucial
An ophthalmologist or another trained professional can find and treat vision problems early. The earlier the treatment the better off your child will be—in and out of school.