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.

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.

Glaucoma is a major cause of vision loss worldwide. It affects more than 3 million people in the United States—nearly half of whom are unaware they have the disease.

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, which transmits visual information from the retina to the brain. Typically, the disease initially has no signs or symptoms. If left untreated, glaucoma can cause irreversible blindness.

The IAO recommends that everyone have a comprehensive eye exam at age 40. Individuals at greater risk for developing glaucoma include people:

• over age 40;
  
• of African, Asian or Hispanic heritage;
  
• who have high eye pressure detected during an eye exam;
  
• who are farsighted or nearsighted;
  
• who have experienced eye trauma or eye injury;
  
• whose corneas are thin in the center;
  
• or who have health problems such as diabetes, migraines, high blood pressure or poor blood circulation.