One of the most common questions people ask their optician is:
“How often should I get my eyes checked?”
It sounds simple — but the answer depends on several factors, including your age, health, lifestyle, and family history. Your eyes change over time, and regular checkups are the key to protecting your vision and detecting potential issues early — long before they start affecting your daily life.
At Optician On Wheels, we believe that eye exams aren’t just for when something feels wrong — they’re an essential part of preventive health care. Vision changes can be subtle and gradual, and early detection can make the difference between maintaining clear sight and facing permanent vision loss.
Whether you live in Burlington or the surrounding area, our goal is to make comprehensive eye care convenient, accessible, and personalized.
Why Regular Eye Exams Matter
Many people think of eye exams as simply a way to update their glasses prescription. While that’s important, a comprehensive eye exam does much more. It can detect early signs of eye diseases — and even reveal hidden health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.
Your eyes truly are windows to your health. During an exam, your optometrist examines blood vessels, nerves, and other internal structures that can reflect your overall well-being. By tracking these changes over time, small problems can be caught and treated before they become serious.
Regular eye exams can help:
- Prevent permanent vision loss from diseases such as glaucoma and macular degeneration
- Detect early diabetic eye disease
- Identify vision changes that affect work, school, or driving
- Monitor how medications or health conditions affect your eyes
- Provide peace of mind knowing your vision and eye health are protected
Recommended Eye Exam Frequency by Age
Your eyes have different needs at every stage of life. Here’s what eye care experts recommend for maintaining healthy vision from childhood through your senior years:
Children (6 Months – 18 Years)
- First exam: Around 6 months old
- Second exam: Around age 3
- Before school: Around age 5–6
- Ongoing: Every 1–2 years thereafter
Children rely heavily on their vision for learning, sports, and development. Even minor issues such as farsightedness or eye misalignment can impact confidence and performance. Regular exams ensure they start each school year ready to succeed.
Adults (18–39 Years)
- Every 2 years, or annually if you experience headaches, eye strain, or vision changes
This is often when refractive errors (like nearsightedness or astigmatism) appear. With increased screen use, regular eye exams help detect fatigue, dryness, and early changes that can affect comfort and productivity.
Adults (40–64 Years)
- Every 1–2 years, with closer monitoring after 40
Around this time, many people begin to experience presbyopia — difficulty focusing on near objects. Routine exams also check for early signs of cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
Seniors (65+ Years)
- Annually, or as recommended by your optometrist
As we age, our risk for degenerative eye conditions increases. Yearly exams help maintain independence, reduce fall risk, and support a higher quality of life.
Special Considerations
Some individuals may need more frequent eye exams. You should be monitored more closely if you:
- Have Diabetes – High blood sugar can damage the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy. Annual or more frequent exams are essential.
- Have a Family History of Eye Disease – Glaucoma, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment can be hereditary.
- Use Screens Heavily – Burlington professionals and students who spend hours on digital devices are prone to eye strain and fatigue.
- Work in High-Risk Environments – Construction, manufacturing, or laboratory work can expose you to debris or bright light.
- Wear Contact Lenses – Annual checkups ensure proper lens fit and eye health.
The Benefits of Staying Consistent
Keeping up with regular eye exams doesn’t just protect your sight — it supports your overall well-being.
Benefits include:
- Preventing vision loss through early detection
- Ensuring your prescription is accurate and comfortable
- Boosting performance at work or school
- Reducing accident risks for seniors
- Improving comfort with customized lens coatings and frame adjustments
Mobile Eye Exams in Burlington and Beyond
At Optician On Wheels, we bring expert eye care directly to you — whether you’re at home, work, or a community location in Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton, or the Greater Toronto Area.
Our mobile clinic offers the same advanced technology and professional care you’d find in a traditional optometry office — without the travel or waiting room.
Our Mobile Services Include:
- Comprehensive eye exams for all ages
- Prescription updates and eyewear fittings on-site
- Detection and management of eye diseases
- Diabetic and senior eye health assessments
- A curated selection of stylish, durable frames and lenses
We make eye care simple, flexible, and accessible for families, seniors, and professionals.
Your Vision Deserves Attention
Life moves quickly — but your eyes deserve regular care. By scheduling routine exams, you’re not only protecting your sight but also investing in your long-term health, comfort, and independence.
Don’t wait until symptoms appear — many eye diseases develop silently.
Early detection is your best defense.
See clearly. Live fully.
Book your next eye exam with Optician On Wheels today — proudly serving Burlington and surrounding communities with convenient, compassionate mobile eye care.
