Eye exams are especially important for children, since their vision can affect how they experience and perform in their daily life. In fact, 80 percent of classroom learning is visual and poor vision can adversely affect their education. Eye problems can thus affect their learning, making regular eye exams for children essential.
Children need to have their first eye exam at six months of age, according to the American Optometric Association (AOA). If the child’s vision health is satisfactory, your optometrist may recommend eye exams every two years or earlier if the child has noticeable problems like looking at the blackboard or if they develop a squint.
Squints need rapid attention to prevent visual loss from a “lazy eye” or amblyopia.
Getting to adulthood, mom is no longer there to remind you to get that important eye exam. This simple neglect can contribute to the 2 million people in the UK who have poor vision.
It is recommended that adults between the ages of 18 to 60 get regular eye exams every two years. Those of you over 61, should see your optometrist every year. Your eye health and general health will also dictate how often you need an examination.
