781-272-4944 General Eye Care & Exams The Importance of An Eye Exam Studies have proven chronic systemic conditions are frequently diagnosed by eye doctors performing a routine eye exam. Diseases such as high cholesterol, diabetes and hypertension have been discovered. During the eye exam, the eye doctor has the ability to see an unobstructed view of the blood vessels within the eye where beginning signs of chronic conditions can be noticed. It is a known fact that regular eye exams can identify visual disease and defects, and save your eyesight with early diagnosis and treatment. What to expect from an eye exam Patients at Eye Associates, P.C. are given thorough eye exams performed by an eye doctor including testing of all aspects of your vision. Dependent upon the findings of the exam, an individual treatment plan will be recommended. Your treatment plan may be for a new glasses prescription, or medical or surgical treatment for an eye disease or problem. If the exam finds your eyes healthy, you will be scheduled to return for your next eye exam in 12 to 24 months. Eye Associates, P.C. may also introduce an eye vitamin or supplement to keep the eye healthy and prevent certain progression of disease. These vitamins and supplements can be purchased at your local pharmacy without a prescription. Healthy Vision is a precious sense to be protected Patients come to us with family history of eye disease, specific symptoms as well as no symptoms, or just routine checks. We treat all types of patients from the very active to the less active. The more active we are, especially in work and play, the more our eyes are at risk. We might suggest equipment to protect the eye during activity. 90% of all eye injuries and 50% of blindness is preventable with routine eye care and protection. Eyecare Exam Calendar Children At birth PreSchool An exam for close and distance vision, including depth perception, is recommended. If findings from the exam show a need, further testing may be performed so correction can be made providing clear vision as early as possible. Often times, if childrens’ eyes are not focusing properly, skills such as reading and other school activities, become disliked by the child. Poor vision can sometimes be the root of this and can easily be corrected with glasses. School years as needed As children grow, their eyes change along with the rest of their bodies. We would recommend an exam every year or two years. Adults Adults ages 20 through 30s With visual changes slowing and sometimes stopping in our 20’s and 30’s, it is recommended to have an exam every 3 to 5 years. More frequently if you wear glasses or contact lenses, or have been diagnosed with eye disease or a visual problem. This is the recommended age for LASIK, to improve and correct vision, lessening or removing the dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Adults ages 40 through 60s As adults mature, they experience more frequent changes to their eyes. It is recommended to have an eye exam every 2 to 4 years. Again, this is dependent upon previous findings with your eye health and if your vision is stable. This is the age where we begin to notice print and computers appearing much smaller and less sharper than in our recent past. You may need reading or specialty glasses to read and see the computer. Adults 65 and older Upon reaching the age of 65, unless otherwise directed, you should have a thorough eye exam every 1 or 2 years. As we age visual changes become more common even if you have had perfect vision in your lifetime until now. Diseases, you may not have identified, can be discovered by your eye care doctor upon exam. Should you have symptoms of glaucoma, cataracts, tearing, diabetes or macular degeneration, or have a family history of these diseases, exams may be recommended along with testing every 6 months. By adhering to early intervention you may save or delay any visual loss that could occur. Vision Risk Assessment Taking this self-assessment could help you determine whether you have now or are at risk for age-related eye disease. Should you not have any of the eye problems listed below but are still experiencing problems with your vision, call our staff today to schedule an eye exam. If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, please call our office or make an appointment online for a complete eye exam. Have you experienced a noticeable change in vision in the last 12 months? Has it been longer than 2 years since your last dilated exam? Does your family have a history of diabetes? Have you been diagnosed with diabetes? If yes, was your last dilated eye exam more than 1 year ago? Does your family have a history of glaucoma? Have you been previously diagnosed or prescribed medication for glaucoma? Has there been an injury to your eye or have you had previous eye surgery? Are you experiencing constant pain in or around the eye? Does your age exceed 65 years of age? Do you have a desire to lessen your dependency on glasses or contact lenses? Start to Experience Better Vision Today Take the step to better vision today by contacting us to make an appointment. Our staff is happy to speak with you, address your concerns and schedule a convenient time for you to have your complete comprehensive eye exam.