Why You Need Annual Eye Exams

Why Should You Schedule an Eye Exam Every Year?

Seeing your eye doctor regularly keeps you ahead of changes instead of reacting after problems appear. Even slight shifts in your prescription can affect how comfortable your vision feels over time, especially when you drive at night, spend long hours on digital devices, or notice more squinting and headaches than usual. Yearly exams also give your eye doctor a chance to compare results from one visit to the next, making subtle changes easier to detect.

Routine exams are also essential for long-term eye health. Many serious eye conditions, including glaucoma and cataracts, tend to progress slowly and may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Regular visits let your optometrist look beyond basic vision screening to examine the internal structures of the eye and check for issues that could threaten your sight if they are not treated promptly.

Recommended exam frequency can vary by age, medical history, and family risk factors. In general, adults over 20 should have a comprehensive eye exam at least every two years, and yearly exams are advised for adults over 65 or for anyone with certain genetic or health-related risks. Many patients still prefer to come in once a year because it provides a simple, consistent way to stay ahead of vision changes and eye health concerns. Your EyeCare Associates doctor can help you determine the schedule that makes the most sense for you.

How Annual Eye Exams Help You Maintain Clear Vision

An annual eye exam does more than confirm whether you still see “well enough.” It allows your eye doctor to fine-tune your prescription so you can see clearly and comfortably throughout your day, whether you are driving at night, working on a computer, or shifting between up-close and distance tasks. Even minor prescription changes can improve clarity and reduce the eye strain that builds when your vision is slightly off.

Regular yearly visits also establish a reliable baseline for your eye health. By comparing exam results over time, your provider at EyeCare Associates can identify gradual shifts earlier and address them sooner. Comprehensive testing, including dilated exams when recommended, gives a broader view inside the eye and supports earlier diagnosis and treatment planning for many conditions that might not cause symptoms until they are more advanced.

What to Expect at Your Eye Exam

A comprehensive eye exam at EyeCare Associates typically includes both vision testing and a thorough evaluation of your eye health. Your visit usually begins with a brief conversation about your medical history, current medications, any eye conditions you have had in the past, and whether you wear glasses or contact lenses. You will also have a chance to share any vision changes or concerns you have noticed.

From there, you can generally expect:

• Vision Testing and Prescription Checks: Your eye care team will measure how clearly you see at different distances and determine whether you need glasses or contact lenses, or if your current prescription should be updated.

• Eye Health Testing: Your doctor will examine the internal and external structures of your eyes, looking for signs of eye disease or other health concerns that can sometimes be detected through an eye exam.

• Dilation: In some cases, your EyeCare Associates doctor may use eye drops to gently widen your pupils. This allows for a more detailed view of the back of the eye, including the retina and optic nerve. After dilation, it is common to have temporary blurry vision and increased light sensitivity. Sunglasses can make things more comfortable, and you may want to be cautious about driving until your vision feels normal again.

Before you leave, your eye doctor will go over the results of the exam, explain any findings, and discuss recommended next steps. They will also suggest how often you should return for future exams based on your age, overall health, vision needs, and risk factors.

How to Prepare for Your Annual Exam

A bit of preparation can help your appointment go smoothly and give your eye doctor the most complete picture of your vision and eye health. Bring your current eyeglasses to the visit, and if you wear contact lenses, bring or note your lens boxes or packaging so you can share the brand, prescription, and wear schedule.

It is also helpful to come ready with a brief overview of your health and vision, including:

• Recent symptoms like blurry vision, trouble with close-up reading, or dry eyes

• A list of medications you are currently or have recently taken, including eye drops, vitamins, and over-the-counter medications

• Any other vision concerns you have like eye fatigue after using screens or night driving glare

If your appointment may involve dilation, plan ahead for a few hours of light sensitivity and mild blur afterward. Pack sunglasses to wear on your way out, and consider arranging a ride to and from the office so you do not have to drive until your vision has fully cleared.

Who Benefits from Yearly Exams?

Annual eye exams are a smart habit for most people, and they are particularly important if you have a higher risk for vision changes or eye disease. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that adults 65 and older have an eye exam every one to two years, even if they do not notice symptoms, and many in this group choose yearly visits for added peace of mind.

Yearly exams can be especially beneficial for:

• Adults 18-39

• Anyone with a family history of eye disease or personal risk factors like high blood pressure and diabetes

• Contact lens wearers who benefit from ongoing evaluation of eye health and fit

• Kids and teens, because vision changes can affect learning and sports and often happen quickly during growth years