How Often Do I Need to Update My Eyeglass Prescription?

Keeping your eyeglass prescription up to date is an important part of maintaining good vision health. Without regularly updating your prescription, you may find yourself struggling to see clearly or suffering from headaches and eye strain. But how often do you need to update your eyeglass prescription? The answer depends on a few factors, including age, lifestyle, and the type of lenses you are wearing. In this article, we will look at when it is time to get a new eyeglass prescription and what signs to look out for that could indicate it’s time to make a change.

What Do Experts Suggest

The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) suggests adults get an eye exam periodically. This is crucial in identifying potential issues; thus, protecting long-term vision. Younger adults aged 18 to 39 should have a comprehensive eye exam done once every year. People aged 30-39, however, need to get it checked twice. All individuals aged 40 and above should go for regular comprehensive vision exams to check for any changes or signs of early eye conditions. Lastly, seniors over 65 should go for an eye exam at least once or a maximum of twice a year to maintain their eyesight health.

Furthermore, the American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends that children’s eyes be checked regularly from birth to age 2. Then, at least once every three years up to age 5. Children aged 6 to 17 should have an eye exam before their first-grade year and then again yearly after that. This will help spot any potential issues early on.

People with certain conditions should have extra regular eye exams. According to the AAO, those who suffer from diabetes or hypertension and people with a family history of eye-related diseases should be especially mindful of their vision health. The same goes for people who wear contact lenses as well as those with vision changes, infections, or eye injuries.

Signs to Watch Out For

Eye issues can be hard to spot since they may not show any symptoms until it’s too late. Nevertheless, you’d know it might be time to update your eye prescription if you start experiencing a few common symptoms, like blurry vision. Other indicators include frequent headaches, eye strain, trouble focusing, squinting, and feeling nauseous.

Importance of Vision Care

It’s a shame that only half of the estimated 93 million U.S. adults at risk of vision impairment have seen an eye doctor in the past year. With regular care, the sight of millions can be maintained and improved significantly. Visiting an optometrist or ophthalmologist for a regular checkup is essential to detect and treat any vision-related diseases before it’s too late. Doing this will ensure that your eyes stay healthy and free from deterioration.

When did you last update your eyeglass prescription? To maintain good vision and eye health, it’s crucial to keep your prescription updated regularly. Schedule your eye exam with Cobb Corner Eye Care in Stoughton, Massachusetts. Please call  (781) 344-3335, our team of experts are ready to assist you today.