Many people think eye exams are only for people who need glasses or have eye diseases. However, everyone should get regular eye exams, especially after 40. Regularly visiting an eye doctor ensures your eyes are healthy and helps prevent vision loss from eye diseases. Learn more about the importance of eye exams and find out how often you should schedule your appointments. 

Why regular eye exams matter 

Regular eye exams aren’t just about seeing clearly—they’re essential for maintaining overall eye health. Eye exams are crucial for catching eye diseases and conditions early when they’re easier to treat. Many eye diseases can sneak up on you, with few or no early symptoms, and early detection is critical to preventing vision loss. At Specs of Madison, our comprehensive eye exams in Madison can also reveal signs of systemic issues such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and more.  

Additionally, regular eye exams can help monitor any existing conditions you may have. For example, if you wear glasses or contact lenses, it’s important to have your prescription checked regularly to ensure that your vision is still sharp and clear. Your eyes can change over time, so keeping up with eye exams will help ensure that you always have the correct prescription. 

How often should I see an eye doctor? 

The general recommendation is to have a comprehensive eye exam every 1-2 years for adults who are not experiencing any vision problems. However, if you wear glasses or contact lenses, have a family history of eye diseases, or have certain medical conditions like diabetes, you may need more frequent exams. Our eye doctors in Madison can recommend the best exam frequency for you based on your age, risk for eye diseases, and other factors.  

When to schedule eye exams for children 

For children, it’s important to start early! Kids should have their first comprehensive eye exam at around six months, then again at age three, and once more before starting school. After that, regular exams every one to two years are usually recommended, unless your optometrist advises otherwise. At Specs of Madison, we offer pediatric eye exams in Madison for children of all ages. Our team can help you decide on the best time to schedule eye exams for your little ones.  

Eye exams for seniors 

As we age, our risk for eye diseases increases. Adults aged 65 and older should have annual eye exams to monitor for conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. The sooner we detect these conditions, the better your chances of preventing permanent vision loss.  

Signs you should see your optometrist sooner 

Sometimes, waiting for your next scheduled exam isn’t an option. If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with us right away: 

• Sudden changes in your vision or difficulty seeing clearly. 
• Eye pain, discomfort, or persistent redness. 
• Seeing flashes of light or a sudden onset of floaters. 
• Trouble seeing at night or in low light conditions. 
• Any unusual eye symptoms that concern you. 

Walk-ins welcome! 

Life gets hectic and it can be hard to find time for appointments. That’s why we welcome walk-ins for eye exams! Whether you’re due for a check-up or simply want peace of mind about your eye health, feel free to stop by during our business hours!  

Don’t put off scheduling your next eye exam. Visit Specs of Madison today and let us help you keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear for years to come.