How Often Do Seniors Need to Have Their Eyes Checked?

Aging is an inevitable part of living, and for seniors, there’s no other symptom that arises from it than eyesight that’s beginning to fail. Regular appointments with an eye doctor can help them foresee the issues and minimize their impact. Vienna Eye Care Center explains the importance of eye exams for seniors in this blog post.

The Reason for Frequent Senior Eye Exams

Seniors must undergo regular eye exams to detect any age-related eye conditions at an early stage. Conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy are more prevalent with age. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, millions of Americans have macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision impairment among older adults aged 50 and above.

Recommended Frequency for Senior Eye Exams

So, how often should seniors have their eyes checked? While individual needs may vary based on overall health and family history, eye care pros recommend undergoing a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year. This ensures that any emerging conditions can be identified and treated early on, potentially preventing significant vision loss.

What To Expect During a Senior Eye Exam

Eye exams for seniors are designed to be thorough and comfortable. They typically include tests for visual acuity, prescription updates, intraocular pressure checks (to screen for glaucoma) and examinations of the eye’s internal structures. Retinal examinations and evaluations of the eye’s overall health helps identify any potential concerns that may need to be addressed.

Maintaining Healthy Vision as a Senior

In addition to scheduling regular exams, seniors can take several steps to maintain their eye health. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, managing chronic conditions (such as diabetes), and practicing good hygiene when handling contact lenses or touching the eyes are all effective strategies for preserving eye health.

Turn to Vienne Eyecare Center for top-notch eye care services in Fairfax, VA, and the surrounding areas.  Our optometrist is on-hand to ensure the eye health of your senior loved ones. Schedule an appointment today by dialing (703) 938-7633 or filling out this contact form.