It’s always important to protect the gift of eyesight — it’s a lifelong endeavor. To that end, the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) offers guidelines for maintaining good eye care with regular visits to your Eye Doctor during different stages of life.
Eye Exams for School-Aged Children
For school-aged children, the AAO recommends an eye exam every two years (provided no vision correction is required). Children who need eyeglasses or contact lenses should be examined annually, or according to their eye pediatrician’s recommendations.
Eye Exams for Young Adults
For healthy adults who have good vision, the minimum would be to have a complete exam once in their 20’s and twice in their 30’s. However, if an infection, injury, eye pain, flashes, or loss of vision occurs, that warrants an immediate eye visit.
Special Cases for Young Adults
Once again, contact lens wearers should be seen at least yearly.
Additionally, those who have Diabetes or a family history of eye disease should follow their doctor’s recommendations in scheduling their eye exams.
Eye Exams at Age 40+
The AAO recommends a comprehensive examination at age 40. However, this advice may be affected by certain risk factors, such as:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Family history
From that point on, regular eye exams should be scheduled at least every other year.
Eye Exams at Age 65+
For patients 65 years old and up, it is imperative to have the eyes checked at least every year or so. However, the frequency of your appointments will also be informed by age-related conditions, such as:
Schedule a Visit with Your Eye Doctor Today
If it’s been a while since your last Eye Doctor visit and you’re located in Central New Jersey, take a moment and schedule a visit at Atlantic Medical Eye Care. Our doctors are ready to help improve and protect your gift of eyesight.
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