If you have perfect vision, making regular appointments with your optometrist may be something you neglect to do. But annual eye exams aren’t just for those with existing vision problems.
Here are some key reasons why you should regularly get your eyes checked by a professional, even if you think you can see perfectly. Ensure your vision is as good as you think Changes in vision can happen slowly. In fact, many people don’t realize that their eyesight has deteriorated because the brain compensates for what the eyes aren’t seeing. Regular visits to the optometrist will help catch and correct minor vision problems. Catch potential eye problems early Eye health isn’t limited to how far you can or can’t see. During your routine eye exam, your optometrist will look for early warning signs of eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration. When caught early, your eye doctor can recommend treatment to slow or stop their progress altogether, preserving your vision. Check for other health issues Your eyes aren’t just the “window to your soul,” they can also provide valuable information about what’s happening in the rest of your body. In fact, an eye exam can reveal serious health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid problems, some autoimmune disorders and even cancer. How often should you see your eye doctor? Even if you have perfect vision, it’s important to see your eye regularly. However, the frequency of your appointments will differ with age. Here’s what’s recommended by the Alberta Association of Optometrists: • Children and teenagers. Kids should have their first eye exam before they begin kindergarten and then once a year until the ago of 19. • Adults under the age of 64. Adults between the ages of 20 and 64 should have a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years. • Adults over the age of 65. Seniors should visit the optometrist for an eye exam once a year. Your optometrist may recommend you see them more often if they determine you have a high risk for developing certain eye or health issues. This can include a family history of eye disease, as well as many other risk factors. Schedule an exam today If you want to make sure your eyes are healthy and that your vision remains clear, visit an optometrist at an Optometrists’ Clinic location near you. Contact us today to make an appointment at one of our five clinics.