You know that moment when you’re squinting at a menu in a dimly lit restaurant or realizing the street signs look a little blurrier than they used to? It sneaks up on all of us. Vision changes gradually, and because it’s often subtle, it’s easy to brush off—until it starts getting in the way.
That is why comprehensive eye exams are such an important part of staying healthy. At Southern Eye Care Associates in Oak Hill, we make it simple to keep an eye on your vision and overall eye health, year after year.
What Happens During an Eye Exam?
An eye exam is more than reading letters off a chart. We begin by checking how clearly you see. Next, we test how well your eyes work together. We also check how your pupils respond to light.
Finally, we look at the health of your retina and optic nerve. We might also look at your eye pressure and screen for conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration. It is a full check-up—comfortable, detailed, and all about you.
The Benefits of Eye Exams (Beyond Just Vision Check-Ups)
Yes, an eye exam helps fine-tune your prescription if you wear glasses or contacts, but it is also a window into your overall health. Routine eye exams can reveal signs of underlying health issues and keep your vision in top shape. Here are a few of the key benefits:
- Early detection of eye conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration—often before you notice symptoms.
- Monitoring changes in vision to help prevent eye strain, headaches, and difficulties with reading or driving.
- Spotting signs of systemic health issues, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and even certain neurological conditions.
- Tracking eye development in children, helping to identify vision problems that could affect learning and behavior.
- Personalized recommendations for digital eye strain, dry eyes, or other lifestyle-related concerns.
Catching these things early can make a big difference—not just for your eyes, but for your overall health. We are here to keep you seeing clearly and feeling confident.
How Often Should You Get Your Eyes Checked?
How often you need an eye exam depends on your age, risk factors, and whether you wear eyeglasses or contact lenses. Even if your vision seems fine, regular check-ups can catch changes you might not notice and help protect your long-term eye health. Here is an easy guide to how often different age groups should come in for a comprehensive exam:
Infants & Toddlers
We recommend a first eye exam between 6–12 months of age. It is a gentle, non-invasive way to make sure your child’s visual development is on track.
Kids & Teens
Between ages 3 and 5, kids should have at least one eye exam, then every 1–2 years while they are in school. So much of learning is visual, and regular exams help catch vision issues early before they impact school or sports.
Adults (20–39)
If you are not having any vision problems, a full eye exam every 2–3 years is usually enough. But if you spend a lot of time on screens or have any changes in your vision, coming in sooner is always a good idea.
Adults (40–64)
Eyes change with age, and this is when issues like presbyopia (hello, reading glasses) start to pop up. An eye exam every 1–2 years can keep you ahead of the curve and help detect early signs of eye conditions.
Adults 65+
As we get older, our eyes need more attention. Annual exams are the best way to monitor changes, manage existing conditions, and protect your vision as you age.
Prioritize Your Eye Health—Book Your Exam in Oak Hill
Your eyes work hard every day. This includes long hours at a screen, driving the kids, or enjoying the scenery on a walk through Oak Hill. Regular eye exams help protect that vision so you can keep doing what you love.
At Southern Eye Care Associates, we are here to make the process easy and personal. If it has been a while since your last check-up, now is the perfect time to book your eye exam and take that step.