Do you have trouble reading the fine print on medicine bottles without squinting? When you drive at night, do the headlights hurt your eyes more than they used to? Our eyes change as we age, and sometimes these changes sneak up on us. For adults and seniors, the risk of developing eye conditions increases significantly, and many of these conditions have no symptoms in the early stages. The older you get, the more likely you are to develop the following eye issues:  

• Presbyopia: Are you over 40 and suddenly having trouble seeing objects up close, like your computer or a book? This is known as presbyopia, and it happens when the lens of your eye gets less flexible with age.  
• Cataracts: Cataracts cloud your vision to the point where it seems like you’re looking through a foggy window. 
• Glaucoma: The silent thief of sight that often goes unnoticed until it’s advanced. 
• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): This progressive disease affects our central vision, making it harder to read small print, recognize faces, and drive.  

So, how often should we get our eyes checked? 

You might be thinking, “Do I really need to see an eye doctor if I can still see okay?” Yes, without a doubt! Adults should see an eye doctor at least every one to two years. Once you reach age 60, you should schedule an eye exam every year. (If you’re wondering how often kids should see an eye doctor, check out our blog on this topic!) 

Keep in mind these are general guidelines. How often you need an eye exam will vary depending on not just your age but also your eye health, whether you need vision correction, and if you have any medical conditions. If you have a family history of eye diseases or conditions like diabetes that can impact your eyes, you may need more frequent check-ups. At The Eye Doctors P.C., we offer comprehensive eye exams in Sioux Falls and will tailor your eye exam frequency to your vision needs and eye health. 

Conclusion 

Imagine missing out on seeing your kid’s or grandkid’s artwork because it’s too blurry or having to give up a favorite hobby because your eyes can’t keep up. Regular eye exams can help prevent these scenarios, ensuring you continue to do what you love and live life to the fullest.  

At The Eye Doctors P.C., our team is highly trained to help you and your family with all your eye care needs. We will not only assess your vision but also check your eyes for early signs of eye disease and recommend daily habits that can help you maintain optimal eye health. With our expertise and cutting-edge equipment, we provide personalized service and outstanding family eye care in Sioux Falls. If you’re concerned about your vision or it’s been a while since your last exam, please schedule an appointment with us today.