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Home » What’s New » How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam? Expert Advice by Age

How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam? Expert Advice by Age

Young woman receiving an eye exam with a slit lamp device

Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining healthy vision at every stage of life. At Judson Family Vision Care, we help patients across Terre Haute protect their sight with age-appropriate care and early detection of vision problems.

Below, we outline how frequently you should schedule an eye exam based on your age group and risk factors.

Eye Exams for Children: Building Healthy Vision Early

A child’s visual development plays a major role in learning, confidence, and social development. Early eye exams help identify issues before they interfere with growth or academic performance.

Recommended schedule:

  • 6–12 months: First comprehensive infant eye exam
  • 3–5 years: Evaluation of focus, eye alignment, and development
  • Before starting school and every 1–2 years after: Ongoing monitoring of vision and eye health

If your child wears glasses, shows signs of vision strain, or struggles in school, more frequent exams may be recommended. Our team provides pediatric eye exams tailored specifically to young eyes.

Teens and Adults (Ages 20–39): Maintaining Daily Visual Comfort

Healthy young adults should schedule a comprehensive eye exam every two years. Annual exams may be recommended for individuals who:

  • Wear glasses or contact lenses
  • Experience digital eye strain or headaches
  • Have a family history of eye disease

Routine eye exams help detect subtle vision changes and may reveal early signs of broader health concerns. If screen time is causing fatigue or discomfort, we also evaluate for dry eye and offer lifestyle-based solutions.

Adults Aged 40–64: Preventative Care Is Key

Vision changes such as presbyopia often begin in your 40s. This age group is also at increased risk for eye diseases that benefit from early detection.

Recommended frequency:

  • Every 1–2 years
  • Annually if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of glaucoma or macular degeneration, or notice changes in vision

Our comprehensive eye exams use advanced diagnostic technology to identify early signs of serious eye conditions before symptoms develop.

Seniors 65 and Older: Annual Eye Exams Are Essential

Aging increases the risk for vision-threatening conditions, including:

  • Cataracts
  • Glaucoma
  • Macular degeneration
  • Diabetic retinopathy

Annual eye exams allow for early diagnosis and ongoing management. We provide senior-focused care, including cataract surgery co-management and treatment for age-related eye disease, to help preserve independence and quality of life.

High-Risk Patients: When to Schedule More Often

You may need more frequent eye exams if you:

  • Wear contact lenses
  • Have diabetes or high blood pressure
  • Take medications with ocular side effects
  • Have a history of eye surgery or eye trauma

We also provide co-management for chronic eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, offering close monitoring and personalized care plans to protect long-term vision.

Book Your Eye Exam in Terre Haute Today

No matter your age, routine eye exams are one of the most effective ways to protect lifelong eye health. The team at Judson Family Vision Care proudly serves patients throughout Terre Haute with personalized, comprehensive care.

We’re conveniently located on Ohio Street in Terre Haute and look forward to helping you and your family maintain clear, comfortable vision for years to come.

Schedule your next eye exam or visit our homepage to learn more about our services and team.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eye Exam Frequency

How often should adults get an eye exam?
Most adults should have an eye exam every two years. Annual exams are recommended if you wear glasses or contacts, have diabetes, or are over age 40.

Do kids need an eye exam before school?
Yes. Children should have an eye exam between ages 3 and 5 and again before starting school to support healthy development and learning.

When should seniors have their eyes checked?
Adults age 65 and older should schedule annual eye exams to monitor for cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and other age-related conditions.

What are signs I may need an eye exam sooner?
Blurred vision, headaches, eye strain, difficulty focusing, or sudden vision changes are all reasons to schedule an exam promptly.

Are eye exams covered by insurance?
Many vision insurance plans cover routine eye exams. Medical insurance may also apply when exams are related to medical eye conditions. Coverage varies by plan.