If your vision seems “fine,” it can be easy to put off booking an appointment. But many eye conditions develop slowly and without obvious symptoms. That’s why one of the most common questions patients ask is: how often should you get an eye exam?
Routine eye exams are about more than updating your glasses prescription. They are an essential part of preventive health care and can detect serious eye diseases — and even broader health conditions — before symptoms begin.
Why Regular Eye Exams Matter
Vision Changes Are Often Subtle
Gradual vision changes can be difficult to notice. You may not realize you’re squinting more often, experiencing mild headaches, or struggling with night driving until the issue becomes disruptive. Regular eye exams ensure your prescription stays current and your eyes are functioning at their best.
Eye Exams Detect More Than Vision Problems
Comprehensive eye exams evaluate the overall health of your eyes, not just how clearly you can see. According to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB), approximately 8 million Canadians live with an eye disease that could lead to vision loss, including cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and diabetic retinopathy.
Even more concerning, CNIB reports that 75% of vision loss in Canada is preventable or treatable if detected early. Many of these conditions have no noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
In addition, optometrists can detect signs of systemic health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol during a comprehensive eye exam.
Protecting Long-Term Eye Health
Early detection allows for timely treatment, better management, and significantly improved outcomes. Without routine exams, serious conditions like glaucoma can progress silently and cause irreversible damage.
How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam by Age?
The answer to “how often should you get an eye exam” depends largely on your age and risk factors.
Children (Infants to Teens)
The Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO) recommends:
- Infants: First eye exam between 6 and 9 months
- Preschool children: At least one exam between ages 2 and 5
- School-aged children (6–19 years): Annually
Vision plays a critical role in learning. In fact, the CAO notes that 80% of learning is visual, yet many vision problems in children go undetected without a comprehensive eye exam. Annual exams help ensure proper visual development and academic success.
Adults (20–64 Years)
For adults without underlying health concerns, the CAO recommends a comprehensive eye exam every two years.
However, many adults benefit from annual exams — especially those who:
- Wear glasses or contact lenses
- Spend long hours on digital devices
- Have a family history of eye disease
Digital eye strain is increasingly common. With Canadians spending more time on screens than ever before, regular monitoring helps reduce discomfort and maintain optimal visual performance.
Seniors (65+)
Adults over 65 should have an eye exam every year.
According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, the prevalence of age-related eye diseases increases significantly after age 60. Cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration are far more common in this age group, and early monitoring is key to preserving vision and independence.
Risk Factors That May Require More Frequent Eye Exams
Certain individuals may need to schedule exams more often than standard guidelines suggest.
You may require annual — or even more frequent — visits if you have:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- A family history of glaucoma or macular degeneration
- A history of eye injury or surgery
- Autoimmune conditions
- Contact lens use
For example, Diabetes Canada reports that over 3 million Canadians live with diagnosed diabetes, and diabetic retinopathy remains one of the leading causes of vision loss. Regular eye exams are essential for early detection and prevention of complications.
If you fall into any of these categories, your optometrist will recommend a schedule tailored to your needs.
Signs You Should Book an Eye Exam Sooner
Even if you recently had an exam, certain symptoms warrant prompt attention:
- Blurry or double vision
- Sudden flashes or floaters
- Persistent eye strain or headaches
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Redness, pain, or light sensitivity
Changes in vision should never be ignored. Early evaluation can prevent long-term damage.
What Happens During a Comprehensive Eye Exam?
A comprehensive eye exam is thorough and personalized. It typically includes:
- Visual acuity testing
- Prescription assessment
- Eye pressure measurement (screening for glaucoma)
- Retinal evaluation
- Assessment of eye coordination and focusing
- Discussion of lifestyle, symptoms, and overall health
Your optometrist will review findings and provide recommendations, whether that involves updated lenses, treatment, or preventive monitoring.
So, How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam?
For most Canadians, the general guideline is every one to two years depending on age and risk factors. Children and seniors typically require annual exams, while healthy adults may need exams every two years — unless other health considerations apply.
However, the most important takeaway is this: waiting for symptoms is not the best approach. With three-quarters of vision loss being preventable or treatable when caught early, proactive care makes all the difference.
If you’re unsure when your last eye exam was, it may be time to schedule one.
Contact Garibaldi Eye Care today to book your comprehensive eye exam and protect your vision for the years ahead.
