If you're still wearing old eyeglasses with an outdated prescription, you might be doing more harm than good to your eyes. Here’s why you should invest in new glasses if your existing glasses are more than a year old.
The Trouble with Outdated Prescriptions
Wearing glasses with an expired prescription won't directly harm your eyes, but it can lead to some uncomfortable vision problems. Old glasses may have scratched lenses, which can make it hard to read. Additionally, the frames may get bent out of shape so that the glasses no longer fit comfortably.
Most importantly, your eyesight can shift gradually over time, making prescription updates imperative to ensure clear vision. Using an outdated prescription as your eyesight changes can lead to strain, headaches, eye fatigue and blurry vision.
Signs You Need a New Prescription
If you're experiencing persistent eye strain, headaches or sudden difficulty focusing on objects, it could be a sign that your prescription needs an update. Frequent squinting, trouble seeing clearly at different distances or even dizziness can indicate a change in your vision and a need for new glasses. Trust your instincts — if something feels off, it's time for a visit to the optometrist.
The Crucial Role of Updated Prescriptions for Children
For children, an up-to-date prescription is vitally important. Children don’t often complain of poor vision because they may not know what normal vision is. Their eyes are still developing, and vision changes can occur rapidly. Ignoring the need for new glasses can lead to academic difficulties, hinder athletic performance and even contribute to developmental issues. An annual pediatric eye exam is vital to ensure children have the correct prescription and are set up for success in both their academic and extracurricular activities.
The Benefits of Regular Eye Exams
Scheduling a regular eye exam with an optometrist is your first line of defence against vision problems. By addressing changes in your vision promptly, you can avoid unnecessary discomfort, frustration and potential harm to your eyes.
Several factors can influence the frequency at which you should have your eyes checked. Typically, healthy adults under the age of 65 should have an eye exam every two years. School-age children, teenagers and adults over 65 should have their eyes examined annually.
Why You Should Prioritize Regular Exams
Prescription updates are more than just a good idea. These regular assessments allow optometrists to catch potential eye health issues early on. Conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy can be detected and managed during a routine eye exam.
Book An Eye Exam with an Optometrist in Edmonton, Leduc and Westlock
At Optometrists’ Clinic Inc., we offer eye exams for adults and children with an optometrist who can ensure your glasses have an accurate, up-to-date prescription. We also carry a wide range of fashionable new glasses from top brand names. Contact us to book an eye exam with an optometrist today.