Eye Exam Frequency: How Often Should You Get Your Eyes Checked?

At Northside Vision, we believe in proactive eye care. Regular eye exams aren’t just about updating your glasses or contact lens prescription—they’re essential for detecting potential vision problems early and maintaining long-term eye health. So, how often should you get your eyes checked? The answer depends on your unique needs, but for most people, an annual exam is the best way to keep your vision sharp and your eyes healthy.

Why Annual Eye Exams Matter

Even if you think your vision is fine, your eyes can change without you realizing it. Many eye conditions, including glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy, can develop without obvious symptoms in the early stages. Regular eye exams allow for early detection and treatment, potentially preventing vision loss.

Beyond checking for prescription changes, your optometrist evaluates the overall health of your eyes. At Northside Vision, we use advanced diagnostic technology to examine the retina, optic nerve, and overall eye structure, helping to identify any concerns before they become major problems.

Who Needs More Frequent Eye Exams?

While an annual exam is recommended for most people, some individuals should consider more frequent visits, including:

Children & Teens – Kids’ eyes are still developing, and undiagnosed vision problems can impact their ability to learn. The American Optometric Association recommends eye exams at least once a year for school-aged children.
Adults Over 60 – As we age, the risk of cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration increases. More frequent checkups help detect these conditions early.
People with Diabetes or Other Health Conditions – Diabetes is a leading cause of vision loss, and those with the condition should have annual or biannual dilated eye exams to monitor for diabetic retinopathy.
Contact Lens Wearers – Wearing contacts increases the risk of eye infections and dryness, making yearly exams essential to ensure the lenses fit properly and your eyes stay healthy.
Anyone with a Family History of Eye Disease – If you have a family history of glaucoma, macular degeneration, or other eye diseases, regular monitoring is critical to catching issues early.

Personalized Care for Spokane & Beyond

At Northside Vision, we understand that every patient’s vision needs are unique. Whether you’re a skier tackling Mount Spokane’s slopes, a local business owner working long hours in front of a screen, or someone who simply wants to keep their eyes in top shape, we’re here to provide personalized, expert care.

Don’t Wait Until You Notice a Problem

Preventative care is the best way to protect your vision. If it’s been more than a year since your last eye exam, it’s time to schedule an appointment.

Schedule your comprehensive eye exam at Northside Vision and see the world with clarity and confidence. Visit our office in Spokane, Washington, or call (509) 519–4400 to book an appointment today.